After the death of Muirkertagh ” of the Leather Cloaks,” the Norse power in Ireland was considerably strengthened, and in the beginning of the second half of the tenth century it was as full as at any time since Turgesius. Domhnall O Neill* son of Muirkertagh, who became Ard Ri in 956, was mostly engaged in conflict not only with the Southern Ui Neili and Laighin, but even with Connacht, whose King was reviving the claims of the Western Siol Ch.tinn to supreme power. Consequently he was unable to curb the Norse settlers, who, despite their recent conversion, continued to raid the country.

Two great warriors were now, however, coming forward, one in Munster, the other in Meath, whose united efforts were to dispel at last the menace of the Norsemen.

It has been observed that of the two families who were entitled to reign over Munster, the Eoghanacht, or Southern, family had long monopolised the throne. The Dal Chais, however, were now asserting themselves, and in the year 964 their chief Mahon became King ” in Caiseal.” At that time the Norse of Limerick held nearly all the south in subjection. Mahon for a time fought against them vigorously, but at length made peace. But his younger brother, the famous Brian Boroimhe, refused to have any truce with the foreigners and retired to the fastnesses of Slieve Aughty on the Connacht borders where, with a small body of followers, he kept up a relentless guerilla warfare.

align=”center”>

Above : Picture Of Pope Gregory VII