This legendary leader is believed to be the first king to rule all of Ireland. Brian Boru was born into the Dál Cais (DAHL GASH) clan and took over after his brother’s death. At the time, Ireland was ruled by many kings, and Brian hoped to bring them under his control. He conquered the southern province of Munster and won battle after battle against his Irish and Viking foes.

Eventually, even the mighty king of the Uí Néill (ee NAIL) dynasty stepped aside. In 1002, Brian became the High King of Ireland.

In 1014, at the legendary Battle of Clontarf, Brian’s forces battled the Vikings one last time. During this battle, Brian’s men faced the Kingdom of Leinster and Norse warriors. Although Brian died during the clash, his army won, crushing the Vikings.

Known as the Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley was the daughter of an Irish chieftain. Her clan, Clan Ó Máille (oh MOYIL-eh), was a seafaring people who sailed the west coast of Ireland. According to legend, as a young girl, she cut her hair short like a boy's so she could sneak onto her father’s ship. This earned her the nickname Gráinne Mhaol (Bald Grace).

O’Malley would become a strong and respected leader. She commanded her pirate fleet for many years, trading and protecting her clan from English rule. O’Malley even met Queen Elizabeth I, another powerful female leader. When English forces captured her family, O’Malley sailed to England to demand their release from the queen. The famous Pirate Queen died in 1603, the same year as Queen Elizabeth I.