Earl of Thomond

Earl of Thomond was a title in the Peerage of Ireland. It was created twice for the family of O'Brien (or in Irish: Ó Briain). The O'Brien dynasty were an ancient Irish sept native to north Munster.

History and background

Surrender and regrant

In 1542 under the Crown of Ireland Act, King Henry VIII of England and France, Lord of Ireland was created King of Ireland by the Irish Parliament. In consequence, all reigning monarchs and clan chiefs in Ireland were ordered to surrender their native titles in return for peerages. The regrant of title was also conditional upon the adoption of Tudor customs and laws, including pledging allegiance to the Irish Crown, and the acceptance of the articles and leadership of the new Anglican Church.

First creation

The first creation of the Earldom of Thomond took place in 1543 for Murrough O'Brien, previously King of Thomond, who was descended from the Ard Ri or High King of Ireland, Brian Boru. O'Brien was also created Baron Inchiquin, on 1 July 1543. On the same day his nephew and heir, Donough O'Brien, was created Baron Ibrickane. The titles of Ibrickane and Thomond merged on the first Earl's death in 1551, and the barony of Inchiquin went to his eldest son.