Eoin O'Gallagher facts for kids

Sir Eoin O'Gallagher was an important Irish leader in the Gaelic area of Tyrconnell. This was during the time of Queen Elizabeth I, known as the Elizabethan era. Eoin O'Gallagher was the head of his family. He was also the main advisor to the O'Donnell dynasty, who ruled Tyrconnell. His father was Tuathal Balbh O'Gallagher, who was also a famous chief. Eoin O'Gallagher became well-known when Sir Hugh O'Donnell was in charge. He had a good relationship with the English Crown. Because of this, he received a yearly payment called a pension in 1574. He was also made a knight in 1581.

Family Life and Connections

Eoin O'Gallagher married Siobhán Maguire. She was the widow of Matthew O'Neill, 1st Baron Dungannon. Matthew O'Neill had been killed in 1558. Through this marriage, Eoin O'Gallagher became the stepfather to Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone. He also became stepfather to Hugh's brothers, Cormac and Art. These family connections were important in Irish politics at the time.

Supporting Hugh Roe O'Donnell

In the 1580s and 1590s, there was a long disagreement. This was about who would lead the O'Donnell family next. Eoin O'Gallagher strongly supported Hugh Roe O'Donnell. Eventually, Hugh Roe O'Donnell won this dispute. The English Crown also recognized him as the rightful leader. Eoin O'Gallagher's support was key to Hugh Roe O'Donnell's success.