Hugh O'Neill

the long version

"Hugh O Neill, Earl of Tyrone, ranks among the most important figures of early seventeenth-century Europe. Renowned for his military exploits, he utilised his inferior forces to defeat the best generals sent by Queen Elizabeth, and his nine-year 'guerilla' war virtually bankrupted the crown." "This book focuses on O Neill's enforced exile (1607-1616), a tragic episode in Irish history which marked the end of the old Gaelic order. In telling this story of intrigue and treachery, courage and perseverance, Micheline Kerney Walsh allows the actors to speak through their own letters and writings." "Red Hugh O Donnell is there, intent on enlisting further Spanish military aid against England; but was his death at Simancas by poison or by natural causes? Another protagonist, O Sullivan Beare, planning to lead an expedition to Ireland, is assassinated in Madrid by a double agent." "O Neill himself emerges from these writings as a charismatic leader of remarkable vigour and indomitable spirit, even in defeat. From his exile in Rome he plans to lead another rising against the English domination. In Ireland his people await his return 'with hands raised', while in England King James' and his ministers' fear of him 'gnaws at their entrails'."--Jacket.