Domhnall mac Conchobair Ó Briain facts for kids

Domhnall mac Conchobair Ó Briain, known in English as Sir Donnell O'Brien (who died in 1579), was an important Irish leader from a region called Thomond in the Kingdom of Ireland. He is most famous for winning the Battle of Spancel Hill. In this battle, he fought against his nephew, who was supported by the English government and a powerful English leader known as the Earl of Sussex. Domhnall Ó Briain wanted to be the Earl of Thomond between 1553 and 1558, and again from 1563 to 1564.

Who Was Domhnall Ó Briain?

Domhnall Ó Briain was the son of Conchobhar mac Toirdhealbaig Ó Briain, who was the King of Thomond. His mother was Anabella Burke. Domhnall's brother was Donough O'Brien, 2nd Earl of Thomond.

After his brother died, Domhnall disagreed about who should be the next leader of the O'Brien clan. He believed he should be the leader instead of his nephew, Connor O'Brien, 3rd Earl of Thomond.

Gaelic Traditions and English Rulers

According to old Irish (Gaelic) traditions, Domhnall was chosen as the new leader, a process called "inauguration." However, he needed the English king or queen to agree to this. His attempts to get this official approval, known as "Crown recognition," did not work. Even though he wanted to be an Earl, he wasn't given that title. But, as a sign of royal favour (meaning the king or queen liked him), he was given a knighthood and became "Sir Donnell."

The Battle of Spancel Hill

Domhnall Ó Briain refused to accept his nephew as the main leader. This led to a conflict. The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, the Earl of Sussex, brought English forces into County Clare to support Domhnall's nephew.

A Famous Victory

After the Earl of Sussex and his forces left, Sir Donnell fought against his nephew and his allies. Sir Donnell won this important battle, known as the Battle of Spancel Hill, in 1559.

The next year, English forces returned to support Domhnall's nephew again. Fighting continued in the area for some time. Eventually, they reached a peaceful agreement. This agreement confirmed that Domhnall's nephew would be the main leader, but Domhnall Ó Briain would also have his own independent status and power.

Domhnall's Family Life

Domhnall Ó Briain married one of the daughters of his uncle, Murrough O'Brien, 1st Earl of Thomond.