The Death of Dermot MacMurrough: Strongbow’s Claim, King Henry II & Laudabiliter

Episode overview

Dermot MacMurrough dies at Ferns and leaves a dangerous power vacuum. Strongbow’s claim to Leinster brings him into conflict with Henry II while the episode examines the disputed papal document Laudabiliter.

This page examines the succession crisis created by Dermot MacMurrough’s death and the larger legal and political questions raised by Strongbow’s claim to Leinster.

Topics covered

• The death of Dermot MacMurrough at Ferns
• Strongbow’s disputed inheritance of Leinster
• Henry II’s reaction to the growing Norman lordship
• The controversy surrounding Laudabiliter