Amlaíb Cenncairech facts for kids

Amlaíb Cenncairech was a powerful Viking leader. He was likely the King of Limerick in the 930s. He led many battles across Ireland, especially in Connacht, Ulster, and Leinster. The 920s and 930s were a time when Vikings were very strong in Ireland. During this time, Limerick was as powerful as Dublin.

Amlaíb's nickname was Cenncairech. Many people thought it meant "Scabby-Head." But some historians believe it might mean "Sinful Head." This is because the old Irish word cairech can mean "criminal" or "guilty."

A Viking Leader's Life

Historians learn about Amlaíb from old Irish books. These books are called Annals of the Four Masters and Annals of Clonmacnoise. These old records sometimes have dates that are a bit off. Another book, the Chronicon Scotorum, talks about similar events. However, it does not mention Amlaíb by name.

Annals of the Four Masters

The Annals of the Four Masters often have dates that are two years later than the actual events.

Was He Captured or Recruited?

One idea is that Amlaíb mac Gofraid forced Amlaíb Cenncairech to join him. This was for a big battle against Athelstan of England. This famous battle was called the Battle of Brunanburh.

More recent historians have a different idea. They think the two Amlaíbs actually fought each other. They believe this was part of a long fight between the Vikings of Dublin and Limerick. This conflict started when Tomrair mac Ailchi arrived in 922. These historians think Amlaíb mac Gofraid won a big victory. This win might have made Limerick less powerful for about 20 or 30 years.

Annals of Clonmacnoise

It is likely that Amlaíb Cenncairech became King of the Limerick Vikings. He probably took over after Colla ua Bairid died in 932. So, he was probably involved in the events of 933.

This record also mentions an expedition to England. But it does not say anything about a fight with Dublin.

Chronicon Scotorum

This record also does not mention any conflict with Dublin.

Amlaíb in Irish Stories

A character named Amlaíb of Limerick appears in an old Irish story. This story is from the 12th century. It is called Caithréim Chellacháin Chaisil. In this story, Cellachán Caisil kills Amlaíb.

Historians are not sure if this Amlaíb is the same as Amlaíb Cenncairech. But some, like Alexander Bugge, suggest it could be him. Another historian, Donnchadh Ó Corráin, says that Amlaíb was a very common Viking name. So, it's hard to be certain.

Bugge also thought this Amlaíb of Limerick might be the father of another Amlaíb. This second Amlaíb is mentioned in the Cogad Gáedel re Gallaib. He was an ally of Ivar of Limerick. According to this story, Amlaíb mac Amlaíb and Ivar were sent away. This happened after the Vikings lost the Battle of Sulcoit in 967. The Dál gCais, led by Mathgamain mac Cennétig, won this battle. The story says they tried to conquer Britain together. But they were not successful. Amlaíb was killed by the king of Britain. Ivar then returned to Limerick soon after.

See also

• Donnubán mac Cathail, possible Irish grandson of Amlaíb