Galloglass 1250–1600: Gaelic Mercenary Warrior - Softcover

Braniff, Fergus Cannan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1846035775 ISBN 13: 9781846035777

Publisher: Osprey Publishing, 2010

Synopsis

Galloglass, from the Gaelic gallóglaigh meaning 'foreign warriors' from the Hebrides, were fearsome axe-wielding mercenaries from the West Highlands and Islands of Scotland who fought in the retinues of Irish magnates from the mid-13th century until the early 17th century. This work, written by Gaelic historian Fergus Cannan, looks at the clan and family structures of the galloglass, their performance in battle, their weapons and armour, and way of life in time of peace and war. The unique fighting skills and tactics of the galloglass are also examined in this pioneering study, as well as how galloglass were organized on the battlefield, and their command structures and systems of rank.

About this title

About the Author:

Fergus Cannan is a historian of the medieval Celtic west, and a prolific writer, scholar and museum professional. His Gaelic forebears were involved in many of the events detailed in this book. Among his other publications are a history of Scottish arms and armour, and he presented the feature about battles of the Scottish War for Independence on the Blu-ray DVD release of Braveheart.

Review:

"The experience of the galloglass in warfare, especially the central activity of raiding, as well as the dramatic scenes of battle, are well explored and provide important insights into the nature of warfare in Ireland in contrast to the rest of Europe at the time." - MATTHEW BENNETT, MILITARY ILLUSTRATED
 

“Cannan’s text includes an enormous amount of fascinating detail ... The text is enriched by a wealth of photographs, maps and other graphics, including a series of very fine, full-page, colour reconstruction graphics by Seán Ó’Brógáin. ... Everyone reading this book will gain much in the way of information and a vivid picture of the lives and impact of galloglass.” – ANDY HALPIN, ULSTER JOURNAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY

About this edition

• Publisher: Osprey Publishing
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 1846035775
• ISBN 13: 9781846035777
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 64
• Illustrator: Ó’Brógáin Seán