Maurice FitzGerald, Lord of Lanstephan[1] (c1100 - 1 September 1176) was a major figure in the Norman conquest of Ireland.
He was the son of Gerald de Windsor, Constable of Pembroke Castle. His mother was Nest, a Welsh princess and former mistress of Henry I. He fought under Robert FitzMartin at the Battle of Crug Mawr in 1136. The exiled High King of Ireland, Dermot MacMurrough (Irish Diarmait Mac Murchada) sought his assistance to regain his position.
Family
The original Earldom of Desmond was based on land holdings in Munster belonging to his descendents. His son was Sir Gerald FitzMaurice, 1st Lord of Offaly (1150 -1204).
References
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