Arthur O'Neill (soldier) facts for kids

Sir Arthur O'Neill (died 1600) was an important Irish soldier and landowner. He belonged to the powerful O'Neill dynasty. This family was the strongest Gaelic group in Ireland at that time.

Arthur was the son of Turlough Luineach O'Neill. Turlough was the leader of the O'Neill dynasty until 1595. Arthur was Turlough's second son. His older brother, Henry O'Neill, passed away in 1578.

Sometimes, Arthur did not get along well with his father. He even supported his father's rival, Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone. When Hugh O'Neill became the new head of the O'Neills, he started a conflict known as Tyrone's Rebellion. Arthur quietly supported his distant cousin, Hugh.

Sir Arthur O'Neill: A Shifting Loyalty

Early Life and Family Ties

Sir Arthur O'Neill grew up in a very important Irish family. His father, Turlough Luineach O'Neill, was a major leader. The O'Neills controlled a large part of Ireland. They were known for their strength and influence.

Arthur was expected to play a role in his family's future. He learned about leadership and warfare. His family connections shaped his path.

A Change of Heart During Rebellion

In the year 1600, something big happened. Arthur decided to contact the English Crown. This was just before English troops landed in Derry. He planned to switch sides and bring his warriors with him.

Arthur offered great help to the English commander. This commander was Sir Henry Docwra. Arthur joined a force that captured Dunnalong. This was a very important place.

He also fought in the Battle of Lifford. In this battle, they won a key victory. They defeated the rebel leader Red Hugh O'Donnell. Arthur is also remembered for saving Docwra. He revealed a secret ambush plan by Rory O'Cahan. This saved many lives.

A Promise and a Sudden End

Arthur was given a big promise. He was told he would become the Earl of Tyrone. This would happen after Hugh O'Neill was punished for his rebellion. Becoming Earl would give Arthur control over a huge area. This land was in central Ulster.

However, Arthur died suddenly in late October 1600. His death is often linked to a celebration. But he might have caught a fever. A fever was spreading through the army camp at that time.

His brother, Cormac O'Neill, tried to claim he was Arthur's heir. But the government did not agree. They recognized Arthur's oldest son, Turlough O'Neill, as the rightful heir.