Twilight Lords

From family to clans and chieftains, to tribal and feudal relationships, to regional and hereditary conflicts,  all were involved in the period surrounding Elizabeth I.  For those of us from Welsh descent, understanding these issues often help climb further out that family tree during this difficult period.  These issues are discussed in a very readable text called "The Twilight Lords".

It is presented as "An Irish Chronicle".  Many of Welsh descent filtered through the pages of this history representing both sides of the story. [Catholic vs Protestant, and English vs Irish]  Written by Richard Berleth, it presents the story of the destructive wars between England and Ireland between 1579 to 1601.  Maps and genealogies are many.  Published 1978 by Barnes & Noble, Inc. NY, it provides insights into the conflicts and families. 

For the genealogist, the historical context is a vital part of our ancestors existence.  Understanding this context will often break through those brick walls.  Throw in Ireland, and you have a deep well in which to draw.  This book provides one bucket. 

The Struggle 1066 - 1284

To make violent strenuous efforts against opposition is one definition of struggle.  The conquest, colonization, and conversion of Albion between 1066 and 1284 is certainly one such struggle.

The peoples England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, were all involved in this struggle.  This book by David Carpenter deals mostly with the Welsh and Scottish against the Normans.   Since my own family tree climbing (genealogy) involved the struggle between the Welsh and Normans, it seemed like an important subject to try and get a handle.  The regions and political divisions of Wales were important for me to sort out.   Wales by 1200 AD was a back and forth between the Anglo-Saxon : Norman powers leading to the wars of Edward I.  This book covers the waterfront.

First published in 2003 by Allen Lane, it was then published by Penguin Books in 2004.  Maps and genealogical tables are helpful.  [Includes the dynasty of Gwynedd, Deheubarth, and Powys.]  A good read for those with Welsh genes among the trees...:-).