The Norman invasion of Ireland is a two-stage process, which begins on May 1, 1169 when a force of loosely associated Norman knights lands near Bannow, County Wexford at the request of Diarmait Mac Murchada, the ousted King of Leinster, who seeks their help in regaining his kingdom.On October 18, 1171, Henry II lands a much bigger army in Waterford to ensure his continuing control over the preceding Norman force.

In the process he takes Dublin and accepts the fealty of the Irish kings and bishops by 1172, so creating the Lordship of Ireland, which forms part of his Angevin Empire.