BattlefieldsBrian Boru Recovers Ulaid Hostages from Flaithbertach
Medieval

Brian Boru Recovers Ulaid Hostages from Flaithbertach

1007
Tyrone, Northern Ireland
Also known as: Brian Boru's Ulster intervention 1007 · Recovery of Ulaid hostages
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Raid
Location
Tyrone, Northern Ireland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Flaithbertach Ua Néill
Forces
Flaithbertach's Cenél nEógain forces
VS
Victor
Brian Boru
Forces
Brian Boru's army
Outcome
Brian personally led a second invasion of Ulster in 1007 to remove the hostages of the Ulaid from Flaithbertach's custody, taking them into his own custody. Flaithbertach submitted and married Brian's daughter Bé Binn.
The Battle

History & Significance

The 1007 campaign demonstrates the complexity of Brian's northern strategy: he had to enforce compliance not just by Ulster kings but also regulate the behaviour of his Cenél nEógain ally, who was using his position to dominate the Ulaid independently. The forcible recovery of hostages was an extraordinary exercise of High Kingship authority. The dynastic marriage of Bé Binn to Flaithbertach was designed to create lasting loyalty.

Casualties & Losses

Not recorded

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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