Battle of Thurles facts for kids

The Battle of Thurles was an important fight that happened in October 1174. It took place near Thurles in County Tipperary, Ireland. This battle was a big moment during the Norman invasion of Ireland. In this fight, an alliance of Irish forces, led by the High King Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair, defeated an Anglo-Norman army. The English army was led by the Earl Richard "Strongbow" de Clare. This defeat forced the English to retreat.

What Was the Norman Invasion of Ireland?

The Norman invasion of Ireland began in 1169. It was when Norman knights, led by Strongbow, came to Ireland. They were invited by an Irish king, Diarmait Mac Murchada, to help him get his kingdom back. Over time, these Normans started to take control of more land in Ireland. This led to many battles between the Irish kingdoms and the Norman invaders.

Who Fought in the Battle of Thurles?

The Battle of Thurles involved two main sides. On one side were the Irish forces. They were led by Ruaidrí Ua Conchobair, who was the High King of Ireland. He was like the main ruler of all the Irish kingdoms at that time. Another important Irish leader was Domnall Mór Ua Briain, the King of Thomond. His fighters, known as the Dalcassians, were very brave. Other Irish groups from Connacht also joined them.

On the other side were the Anglo-Norman forces. They were led by Richard "Strongbow" de Clare. Strongbow was a powerful Norman lord from England. He had a large army of knights and soldiers. Another leader with him was Hervé de Marisco.

What Happened at Thurles?

In October 1174, Strongbow led his army to attack Munster, a region in Ireland. Their goal was to take control and plunder the area. When High King Rory O'Connor heard about this, he gathered his own army. He marched to Munster to defend the land.

The English army asked for help from the Galls Ostmen of Dublin. These were people of Norse-Irish background living in Dublin. They quickly joined Strongbow's forces at Thurles.

The Irish forces also gathered at Thurles. King Donal O'Brien and his Dalcassian warriors were there. Soldiers from West Connacht and other parts of Connacht also joined the High King.

A fierce battle took place between the two armies. The fighting was very intense. In the end, the Irish forces fought bravely and defeated the English. About 1,700 English soldiers were killed in this battle. Only a few of them managed to escape with Strongbow. He returned to his base in Waterford feeling very sad. King Donal O'Brien and the Irish forces celebrated their victory.

This battle was a big win for the Irish. It showed that they could stand up to the powerful Norman invaders.