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The Normans In Ireland
Although an important piece of Irish history, the life of the Normans in Ireland was somewhat short lived (+200 years) in terms of occupation. In saying this, the Norman invasion of Ireland would lead to the English occupation on Irish soil for over 800 years, a reason why this era held importance in Ireland history.
The Normans brought many new things to Ireland such as Architecture, languages, such as English and French, and farming ideas just to name a few. As brilliant builders the Normans constructed many Castles in Ireland to some of which still stand today, many other lay in ruin.
Why Did The Normans Invade Ireland?
For a number of years leading up to the Norman invasion Ireland had been in turmoil with internal feuds and battles. Kings on the island set out in a race to become High King of Ireland causing instability in the country. The King of Leinster, Diarmait Mac Murchada, was ousted from power and fled Wales in fear of his life. From there he moved onto England and then France to seek help from the feared King Henry II. This call for help would lead to Diarmait Mac Murchada being Ireland’s biggest traitor in Irish history. Although his call for help was for him to regain power of Leinster and the whole of Ireland he didn’t foresee Ireland being under foreign occupation for over 800 years.
When did they invade?
The arrival of the Normans in Ireland took place on different dates but the most important event was the first Norman miltary invasion. Read the invasion of the Normans for more information.
The Arrival Of The English
After the Normans arrived, with an English King's blessing, they settled into Irish way of life to disliking of the English. The answer was for the English King to invade Ireland and take control.
The Statutes of Kilkenny
To cease the Normans behaving as the Irish, or more so, in 1366 the English introduced the Statutes of Kilkenny, new laws to establish English culture & customs in Ireland.
Castles in Ireland
As invasions on Ireland increased so did the need for fornications. Today Ireland still holds many of these fortifications including castles that…