ollamains

Ollamains were a type of mercenary soldier prominent in medieval Ireland. The term is derived from the Old Irish word "ollam," which typically referred to a poet or scholar of the highest rank, suggesting a certain prestige or specialized knowledge associated with these fighters. Unlike some other mercenary groups, ollamains were not exclusively foreign but often comprised Irish warriors hired out to different Gaelic lordships or even to the Anglo-Norman lords who established themselves in Ireland.

Their exact role and composition are not always clearly defined in historical records, leading to some debate among historians. Some accounts suggest they might have been a more professional and perhaps better-equipped fighting force, distinct from the general levy of a clan. They could have been employed for specific campaigns, garrison duties, or as personal guards. The association with the term "ollam" might imply a degree of skill in warfare that set them apart, perhaps in tactics or strategy, or it could simply reflect the societal value placed on specialized roles. Their presence highlights the complex political landscape of medieval Ireland, where alliances were fluid and military forces were often augmented by hired soldiers. The mercenary nature of warfare was a significant feature of the era, and ollamains were an integral part of this system within the Irish context.