During these months O'Neill had been holding his own well. He knew, however, that he could not long remain in isolation, but must make terms with one or other of the parties. Both the Royalists—for the former Confederationists may now be justly described by this name—and the Parliamentarians, knowing his value, were eager to treat with him. Eoghan, on reflection, preferred to trust anyone rather than the perfidious Ormond, and he entered into negotiations with General Monk. Cromwell, however, would have no ... Read More

Most of the fighting, however, that took place in the north was not against the foreign element. O'Neills and O'Donnells fought amongst themselves, against each other, and against their neighbours. Wars of succession frequently rent both great families, eventually resulting in the family of Eoghan retaining the headship of the Cineal Eoghain in Conn Mdr and his son, Conn Bacach, and in Aodh Ruadh O'Donnell, and his son, Aodh Dubh O'Donnel, being successively chiefs of the Cineal Chonaill. Both families still maintained ... Read More