In this lesson, we will learn about the historical organisation of early Irish society, which was comprised of clan-based groups with limited power and sovereignty over their familial domains.

We will explore the concept of individual and divided sovereignty, the intricate social order of medieval Irish society, and the faction-based self-image and deep connection with defending the family name that often resulted in feuds and family rivalries.

Additionally, we will delve into the tradition of family battle cries, or sluagh-ghairm, which identified and marked out one family faction from another on the fields of battle.

Lesson Outcomes:

1. Understand the concept of clan-based society in ancient Ireland
2. Learn about the decentralization of power and sovereignty in Irish society
3. Explore the social order and familial structure in early Irish medieval society
4. Examine the significance of family battle cries and their use in identifying family factions during pitched battles

Additional Materials:

1. Lesson Transcript: Gaelic Clans and Battle Cries (Including List of Battle Cries from Selected Gaelic Clans)