Prehistoric Ireland
County Westmeath is one of the most beautiful counties in Ireland. Its coastline is dotted with historic castles and fortified towns. Counties Galway and Roscommon are nearby, too. The Norman invasion of Ireland began in 1169, when Strongbow landed near Waterford City. He defeated Irish forces led by King Diarmuid Mac Murchada, who died shortly thereafter. This victory opened up much of western Ireland to further conquest. In 1204, Henry II invaded Connacht and took over Dublin Castle. In the 13th century, William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, fought against the Normans and eventually became king of England. His son, John, married Princess Isabella of France, and she brought her husband Louis IX of France into power. King Edward I of England conquered Ulster in the early 1300s. By 1450, he had established several settlements there, including Derry. These settlers built strong fortifications around their towns. By the 16th century, the English had taken control of most of Ireland. They ruled it until 1922, when Ireland gained independence.