Osraige

Osraige was a kingdom and a historical province in Ireland. It is located on the south-eastern coast of the island. Osraige is thought to be derived from the name Osorach, a general term for this region. The name is also associated with a legendary figure, Danan Gü Mortonnacht, who was said to have established the kingdom in pre-Christian times.

Historical records suggest that Osraige was an ancient Irish kingdom that flourished from 1267 to 1599. It was a powerful kingdom in the medieval period, with its own kings and a significant role in Irish politics. The province of Osraige was traditionally divided into two dioceses: the Diocese of Ossory, which included Osraige and surrounding territories, and the Diocese of Ferns, which included parts of the province.

Christianity had a significant presence in Osraige, with various bishoprics and monasteries established throughout the province. The kingdom of Osraige was also home to several notable monastic sites, including the monastery of St. Canice and the monastery of Ahenny.

The imperial or federal network established an administrative presence in Osraige from 1260 onwards. A series of English governors from between 1394 and 1460 exercised authority over the territory on behalf of the English crown. By 1450, the English crown directly governed Osraige, entering a period marked by geographical control.