MacCarthy Reagh

Carbery in Tudor times

The MacCarthy Reagh (Irish: Mac Cárthaigh Riabhach) were a branch of Clan MacCarthy who were kings of Carbery in southwest Ireland. They began in the 13th century and made Carbery into a small, independent kingdom.

Origins and growth

Their name comes from Donal Reagh MacCarthy, the 5th Prince of Carbery. He lived in the late 1300s. The family grew rich and powerful from the 14th to the 16th century. They had strong armies and ruled their land largely without outside control.

Princes and rulers

Many princes of Carbery came from the MacCarthy Reagh family. They included:

• Donal Reagh, who gave the family its name.
• Cormac na Haoine, who led after him.
• Donal na Pípe, the last prince to rule under Gaelic laws.

The end of their rule

After 1606, the family lost their princely titles. This was because of changes in government and a system called "surrender and regrant." Even though they kept some lands, they no longer ruled as princes.

Legacy

The MacCarthy Reagh left a deep mark on southwest Ireland. Their castles, poems, and art show they supported learning and culture. Some of their descendants also served in other countries, like France, where they used their family name and noble background.

Today, the story of MacCarthy Reagh is remembered in local history, heritage societies, and family gatherings. Their rise and fall tell about how Gaelic Ireland changed in the early modern era.