Diarmait mac Énna meic Murchada facts for kids

Diarmait mac Énna meic Murchada (died 1117) was an important ruler in early 12th-century Ireland. He was a king who controlled both the Kingdom of Leinster and the Kingdom of Dublin.

Who Was Diarmait mac Énna?

Diarmait mac Énna was a powerful Irish king. He lived in the 1100s, a time when different kingdoms in Ireland often fought for control. Diarmait became known for ruling two important areas: Leinster and Dublin.

His Family and Background

Diarmait was part of a group called the Uí Chennselaig. This was a powerful family or clan in Ireland. His father was named Énna mac Murchada. Being part of the Uí Chennselaig family meant Diarmait had a strong claim to leadership in Leinster.

How Diarmait Became King

In the year 1115, a big change happened in Leinster. Two kings who ruled Leinster together, Donnchad mac Murchada and Conchobar Ua Conchobair Failge, decided to attack the Kingdom of Dublin. Dublin was then controlled by another powerful family, the Uí Briain.

However, the people of Dublin fought back strongly. Their leader was a man named Domnall Gerrlámhach. The Dubliners managed to stop the invasion. Sadly, both Donnchad and Conchobar were killed in this battle.

After this event, the kingship of Leinster became open. Diarmait mac Énna then stepped up and became the new King of Leinster.

Taking Control of Dublin

Soon after becoming King of Leinster, Diarmait also managed to take control of Dublin. This made him a very powerful ruler, as he now controlled two important kingdoms.

Diarmait ruled Dublin for a short time. He died there in 1117. After his death, Domnall Gerrlámhach, the man who had defended Dublin earlier, became King of Dublin again. Another person from Diarmait's family, Énna Mac Murchada, was chosen to be the new King of Leinster.