History of Ireland: From Celts to English Rule

Ireland’s history is a constant struggle for land and power. First, the Gaelic Celts fought among themselves for the title of High King; then the Scandinavians established the trading kingdom of Dublin and left behind legends of the “black pool” and their mercenary gall-óglaigh. When Anglo-Norman knights—Strongbow, FitzStephen, and their companions—landed in Ireland in the 12th century, the clan chiefs faced a new challenge.