Masraige facts for kids
The Masraige were an ancient tribe who lived in County Cavan, Ireland. They were part of a group called the Fir Bolg, who were some of the earliest people in Ireland. Their name, Masraige, means "Beautiful Folk" or "Fine-Looking People" in Old Irish. You might also see their name spelled in other ways, like Masragii or Masraide.
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Who Were the Masraige?
The Masraige lived in an area known as Magh Slécht. This region is in what we now call County Cavan. They were mentioned in old Irish writings. One of these is the Life of Dallán Forgaill, which says he was born in their territory.
The Story of Conall Gulban
The Masraige are famous for a story involving a powerful leader named Conall Gulban. He was the son of Niall of the Nine Hostages. Conall was an important king from the Uí Néill family. This family was one of the main ruling groups in ancient Ireland.
Conall's Death
According to old records, the Masraige were involved in Conall Gulban's death. The Annals of the Four Masters, a famous collection of Irish historical notes, mentions this event. It says that in the year 464 AD, Conall Gulban was killed by the "old tribes of Magh Slecht." He was found without his usual protection.
What the Book of Fenagh Says
The Book of Fenagh is another old Irish text. It gives more details about Conall's death. It tells how the Masraige went on a raid to Tara, a very important ancient site. They took horses from there. Conall Gulban chased after them.
The book says that Conall was killed in a place called Magh-Rein. This happened near a fort known as Dun-baile. Some stories say he was killed by a flying spear. Others suggest he was attacked by many men when he was not wearing his shield. No matter how it happened, the Masraige were blamed for his death. His grave was placed between a lake and the fort.
The Masraige as "Aithechthúatha"
The Masraige were part of a group called the Aithechthúatha. This was a general name for certain Irish tribes. It often meant "rent-paying tribes" or "tributary peoples." These were tribes who paid taxes or tribute to the more powerful ruling families. The Masraige did not belong to the main ruling families, like the Uí Néill or Eóganachta. These ruling families were the overlords of older tribes like the Masraige.
The Masraige are even mentioned in an old Irish tale. This story is called Cairpre Cindchait and the Athach Tuatha.
What Happened to the Masraige?
The Masraige tribe eventually lost their power. They were conquered by another group called the Uí Briúin Bréifne. This happened around the 8th century. After this, the Masraige were no longer a major force in the area.
