Philip Og O'Reilly facts for kids

Philip Og O'Reilly (born around 1640, died 1703) was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Cavan in the Parliament of Ireland in 1689. An MP is a person elected to represent a group of people in a country's parliament. The Parliament of Ireland was like a government meeting place for Ireland at that time.

Early Life and Family Roots

Philip Og O'Reilly's name in the Irish language was Pilib Óg O'Raghallaigh. The name Pilib Óg means "Young Philip." He was likely called this to tell him apart from another important person, Philip Reyley, who was also an MP for County Cavan in the same Parliament.

Philip Og came from an important family. His ancestors included Phillip Dubh and Aodh Conallach O'Raghallaigh. These family members were once leaders of East Breifne and chiefs of the powerful O'Reilly clan.

Philip Og's mother was Jane Betagh. She was probably from Moynalty in County Meath. His parents married before November 1641. Philip's father, Captain Hugh McMulmore O'Rely, was a leader during a time of conflict in Ireland in 1641. It is thought that Philip Og was born in Killyvaghan, Shercock, County Cavan. Philip Og also had a younger brother named Aodh Óg O'Raghallaigh.

Political Journey

Philip Og O'Reilly likely became a member of the Cavan Corporation on February 23, 1688. A Corporation was a local council that helped manage the town.

In 1689, Philip Og was chosen to represent the town of Cavan in a special meeting of the Irish Parliament. This meeting is sometimes called the Patriot Parliament. He served alongside another MP named Hugh Reily.

After a big change in power, when King William III of England took over from King James II of England, Philip Og faced difficulties. He was declared an "outlaw" by the new government. This meant he was no longer protected by the law. His name was on a list of people from Cavan who were considered disloyal to the new king. It is believed that Philip then left Ireland and went to France, like many others who were in a similar situation.

Later Years and Legacy

Philip Og O'Reilly passed away in early 1703. He is probably buried in France. He had at least two sons: Maol Mordha O'Reilly and Friar Sean O'Reilly.

A special poem, Poem XXIII in James Carney's book 'Poems on the O'Reillys,' was written to remember Philip Og after his death. The poem was written by Father Thomas O'Clery, who was a parish priest in Killann, County Cavan.