Settlements in Ireland

Forth and Bargy is a good example of the type of settlements that took place in Ireland from around the twelfth century onwards. The Normans first came to Ireland in 1170. Over time, they became a part of Irish society.

Successive English governments saw that the best way to control Ireland was to get loyal English communities to live there. To achieve this, there were plantations of Ulster, Munster and Connaght in the sixteenth century. The Ulster Plantations had the most impact.

By 1649, another war had created another opportunity for more settlement. Often, British soldiers who had fought in battle in Ireland settled there. 

Plantations often caused problems. To make room for the settlers, the Irish natives were often forced to leave their lands. This created poverty and unrest among the native population.