The Norman invasion of Ireland (Irish: Ionradh Normannach na hÉireann) began on 1 May 1169 when a Norman military force landed near Bannow, County Wexford. This was at the behest of Dermot MacMurrough (Diarmait Mac Murchada), the ousted King of Leinster who sought their help in regaining his kingdom. On 18 October 1171, Henry II landed a much bigger force in the same area. Much of the island was conquered and became the "Lordship of Ireland", whi...
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The Norman invasion of Ireland (Irish: Ionradh Normannach na hÉireann) began on 1 May 1169 when a Norman military force landed near Bannow, County Wexford. This was at the behest of Dermot MacMurrough (Diarmait Mac Murchada), the ousted King of Leinster who sought their help in regaining his kingdom. On 18 October 1171, Henry II landed a much bigger force in the same area. Much of the island was conquered and became the "Lordship of Ireland", which formed part of the Angevin Empire.
After losing the protection of Tyrone Chief, Muirchertach Mac Lochlainn, High King of Ireland, who died in 1166, MacMorrough was forcibly exiled by a confederation of Irish forces under the new High King, Rory O'Connor.
MacMurrough fled first to Bristol and then to Normandy. He sought and obtained permission from Henry II of England to use the latter's subjects to regain his kingdom. By 1167 MacMurrough had obtained the services of Maurice Fitz Gerald and later persuaded Rhys ap Gruffydd Prince of...
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