The Kings of Connacht and the English crown, 1189-1274: a game-theoretic approach

Author(s)

Vinicius Marino Carvalho

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Filosofia, Letras e Ciências Humanas (FFLCH/SBD)
• Defense date: 2016-12-09

Examining board members

Marcelo Candido da Silva; Fabiano Fernandes; Marcelo Aparecido Rede; Glauco Peres da Silva

• Advisor: Marcelo Candido da Silva

Abstract

This research explores the interactions between the English Crown and the Irish kings of Connacht from the perspective of game theory. Its temporal boundaries are the beginning of the reign of Cathal Crobhderg Ó Conchobhair (1189-1224) and the end of the reign of Áed na nGall Ó Conchobhair (1265-1274). Through an analysis of the Irish annals and the rolls of the English central administration, I sought to systematize, with the aid of a game-theoretic model, how external pressures and and the need to preserve the governability towards their subjects inticed or hindered cooperation between Gaelic chieftains and the English Crown. I conclude that, during the 13th century, a transition was set in motion between a state of affairs in which cooperation between the two categories of actors was a generally favorable strategy to another, in which alliances started to become burdens. Although the ensuing hostilities culminated in wars, dinastic breaks and material devastation, these decisions do not seem to have been governability crises. On the contrary, the pattern of actions of Irish and English actors seem to suggest that antagonism between them was a necessary course of action to preserve vassal support within the clan and kingdom, respectively. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/26092-9 - Governors, gaelic chiefs and ghovernability in Ireland (13th-15th centuries)
• Grantee: Vinicius Marino Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master