Laigin facts for kids

The Laigin (pronounced like LYE-gin) were an important group of people in early Ireland. Their name is the origin of the word "Leinster," which is a province in Ireland today. In old Irish, Leinster was called Cóiced Laigen, meaning "Fifth/province of the Leinstermen."

The Laigin lived in southeast Ireland. Their land once stretched from the River Shannon to the River Boyne. Many families in Ireland today can trace their roots back to the Laigin.

What Does "Laigin" Mean?

The word "Laigin" is a plural word. This means it refers to a group of people, not a place. The name is thought to come from the old Irish word láigen, which means 'a spear'. So, the Laigin were like the "spear-men."

Where Did the Laigin Come From?

The Laigin believed they were descendants of a king named Labraid Loingsech. Some historians think the Laigin might have come from Gaul (modern-day France) or Britain. They probably arrived in Ireland a very long time ago, perhaps before 500 BC. Over time, they became part of the main Irish family trees.

The Story of Labraid Loingsech

Ancient stories tell us about Labraid Loingsech. He was once exiled from his home by his granduncle, Cobhtach Coel. But Labraid returned to Ireland with an army of spearmen. These spearmen were called the Laigin.

Labraid fought to get his kingdom back. He defeated Cobhtach Coel and became king. This story helps explain why the Laigin were known as "spear-men."

Who Were the Laigin Connected To?

Old poems and texts mention three main groups within the Laigin:

• The Laigin themselves
• The Gaileóin
• The Fir Domnann

The Fir Domnann might have been related to a British group called the Dumnonii.

Many important families and ruling groups in Ireland claimed to be part of the Laigin. Some of these include:

• Uí Failge
• Uí Bairrche
• Uí Dúnlainge
• Uí Ceinnselaig
• Uí Garrchon
• Uí Máil

The Laigin in Old Stories

In famous Irish tales like the Ulster Cycle, some characters are linked to the Laigin. For example, Ailill mac Máta, a king from the Connachta region, is said to be from the Laigin. This might mean that the Laigin or related groups once had a strong presence in other parts of Ireland, like Connacht.

See also

• Uí Dúnlainge
• Uí Ceinnselaig
• Uí Bairrche
• List of kings of Leinster
• Loígis
• Ó Laighin