A Viking reinforcement victory at Mag Femen helped the Uí Ímair reassert dominance over Ireland ahead of retaking Dublin.
Key Facts
- Date
- 22 August 917
- Victor
- Uí Ímair (Vikings)
- Viking commander
- Ragnall, grandson of Ímar
- Irish commander
- Niall Glúndub, High King of Ireland
- Battle site
- Topar Glethrach, Mag Femen
- Companion battle same year
- Battle of Confey
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
After losing the Kingdom of Dublin in 902, the Uí Ímair sought to reclaim their former stronghold. This drive to retake Dublin led to two significant engagements in 917, of which the Battle of Mag Femen was one. Niall Glúndub, as High King of Ireland, moved to oppose the Viking resurgence with the forces of the Northern Uí Néill.
The Irish forces under Niall Glúndub attacked a Viking army at Topar Glethrach in Mag Femen. Initially the Irish inflicted the greater share of casualties, gaining an early advantage. Late in the battle, however, Ragnall arrived with a fresh host of reinforcements, turning the tide decisively in favor of the Uí Ímair and securing a Viking victory.
The Viking victory at Mag Femen strengthened the Uí Ímair position in Ireland and was part of the broader campaign that led to their recovery of Dublin. Ragnall's success demonstrated the continued military capability of the Uí Ímair dynasty and presaged further Irish-Viking conflict, culminating in the Battle of Confey later the same year.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Niall Glúndub.
Side B
1 belligerent
Ragnall (grandson of Ímar).