Ailill Molt High King of Ireland and King of Connacht. Country: Ireland

1. Áed Dub mac Suibni: The High King of Ireland
2. Controversy over Royal Lineage
3. Reign and Accomplishments
4. Death and Succession
5. The Origin of the "Molta" Epithat

Áed Dub mac Suibni: The High King of Ireland

Áed Dub mac Suibni ascended to the position of High King of Ireland and ruled alongside his role as King of Connacht. His lineage can be traced back to Niall of the Nine Hostages through his father, Nath Í, who descended from Niall's brother, Fiachra.

Controversy over Royal Lineage

Historical accounts, particularly annals, are believed to have undergone significant alteration to favor the Uí Néill dynasty. This has led to the omission of certain monarchs from the list of High Kings and the artificial inclusion of others within the Uí Néill lineage. Áed Dub mac Suibni stands out as one of the few High Kings not affiliated with the Uí Néill dynasty.

Reign and Accomplishments

Áed Dub mac Suibni is believed to have assumed the throne following Loegaire's death in 463 CE. Notable events during his reign include the "Feast of Tara" (feis Temro), a royal inauguration ceremony, and a victory over the Leinstermen at Duma Achair. He is also credited with defeating the Leinstermen in the unconventional "Fist Fight" (dorgnal) at Bri Éle.

Death and Succession

Áed Dub mac Suibni's reign came to an end at the Battle of Och. His successors, Lugaid, son of Loegaire, and Muirchertach, son of Ercc, both participated in this conflict.

The Origin of the "Molta" Epithat

Áed Dub mac Suibni bears the epithet "Molta," meaning "wether (castrated ram)." The reason for this moniker is uncertain. Medieval sources, such as the "Truth of Names" (Coir Anmann), offer differing explanations. One theory suggests that his mother, Ethne, daughter of Connrach, craved wether meat, prompting his wife, Fial, daughter of Eochu, to assign him this nickname. Alternatively, the epithet "Molta" may refer to "ma folt" (he of long hair), indicating that his hair was longer than his brothers'.