Goffraidh Ó Dónaill

Goffraidh Ó Dónaill was the Irish king of Tyrconnell and the first chieftain of mark in the O'Donnell family.

Early years

Goffraidh was the son of Dónall Mór Ó Dónaill (died 1241).

Career

He rapidly came to power, initially with the support of the Norman FitzGeralds.

In 1248, he was inaugurated as "The O'Donnell", meaning chief of the clan. He made a successful inroad into Tyrone against Brian Ó Néill in 1252. In 1257,he drove the English out of northern Connacht after the battle of Creadran-Cille killing Maurice Fitzgerald in personal combat, but suffering severe injuries. Ó Dónaill, while still incapacitated by his wound, was summoned by Brian O'Neill to give hostages in token of submission. Carried on a litter at the head of his clan, he gave battle to O'Neill, whom he defeated with severe loss in prisoners and cattle.

Ó Dónaill died of his wound immediately afterwards near Letterkenny, Ireland and was succeeded in the chieftainship by his brother Dónall Óg.

References

•  This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed (1911). Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press.