Énna Derg

Énna Derg (also spelled Énda Dearg) is a figure in Irish mythology and genealogy. He is listed as a High King of Ireland in medieval Irish chronicles. The chronology of these chronicles varies considerably, but generally places his reign sometime between the 2nd century BC and the 2nd century AD.

According to legend, Énna Derg was the son of Dui Finn and grandson of Setna Innarraid. He is said to have ruled for either nine or twelve years (depending on the source). The Lebor na hUidre ("Book of the Dun Cow") gives him a reign of nine years. Other sources, such as Geoffrey Keating's Foras Feasa ar Éirinn ("History of Ireland"), claim a twelve-year reign.

The various Irish annals and king lists often disagree on the order and duration of reigns of the early High Kings, making it difficult to ascertain historical accuracy. Énna Derg's reign is often placed after that of Lugaid Luaigne, and he is said to have been succeeded by Lugaid's son, Lugaid Loígde. The Annals of the Four Masters state that Énna Derg was killed by Lugaid Loígde at Carn Feradaig.

As with many figures in early Irish legendary history, it is difficult to separate historical fact from mythological embellishment in the accounts of Énna Derg. His inclusion in the king lists provides evidence for his significance in the historical traditions of Ireland, even if the specific details of his life and reign are uncertain.