Episode 6 is the start of one of the great stories of medieval Irish history that wil finish with the rise of Brian Boru. Gripping, ruthless and at times blood curdling this history is full of twists and turns. Over the next three shows we will see the O Neill kingdom, who have dominated the first five episodes, see their power challenged by the Dal Cais (the family of Brian Boru). This will see many challengers rise and fall as these two families battle it out for supremacy in medieval Ireland.
Today we begin with the rule of the O’Neill High King Donnchad Donn who rose to power in 919. His life was intertwined with one of the greatest O’Neill warriors Muircherteach Mac Neill, eulogised on his death as “the hector of the west”. Find out how he earned that name and how Brian Boru’s family, the Dal Cais, fight their way into the story.y
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