The Trembling Sod
Ireland had no permanent central government comparable to that of contemporary England. Power rested in overlapping kingdoms, personal alliances and hierarchies of tribute. A claimant to the kingship of Ireland had to demonstrate supremacy repeatedly by receiving hostages, levying tribute, supporting dependent rulers and leading armies beyond his own province. Tairdelbach Ua Conchobair, king of Connacht, had exercised such authority for decades, using sons and allies to extend his influence into Mide, Bréifne, Leinster and Munster.