Making Inishowen English: the transformation of a minor Irish lordship, 1534-1641

Abstract

This thesis is an examination of Inishowen and the changes that occurred following the Ulster Plantation 1609. Whilst previous contributors have discussed Inishowen during this period, the intention here is to analyze the development of English crown policies which reflect the transformation of the peninsula. Significantly, Lord Deputy Sir Arthur Chichester gained full possession of Inishowen under the settlement and his aspirations for both his grant and the greater Ulster Plantation are examined. A look at an area planted within a larger plantation gives a micro analysis of the effect of policies and makes a contribution to existing Irish history literature. The thesis will assist those interested in sixteenth and early seventeenth century history of Ireland.

Thus, the thesis examines the evolvement of English crown policy in chapter one discussing the changes throughout the sixteenth century. Chapter two is concerned with Inishowen and its leading family the ‘O’ Doherty’ during the same period while chapter three looks at the violent end of their rule and its consequences. Chapter four concentrates on the plans for the Ulster Plantation with particular concentration on Inishowen. Finally, by way of an epilogue chapter five explores the 1641 rebellion and its consequences on Inishowen.

Date of Award	Jun 2021
Original language	English
Supervisor	Eamonn O Ciardha (Supervisor), Ian Thatcher (Supervisor) & William Kelly (Supervisor)