The O'Neill dynasty are a lineage of Irish Gaelic origin that held prominent positions and titles in Ireland and elsewhere. As kings of Cenél nEógain, they were historically one of the most prominent family of the Northern Uí Néill, along with the O'Donnell dynasty. Some O'Neills state that their ancestors were kings of Ailech during the Early Middle Ages, as descendants of Niall of the Nine Hostages.
Clan MacAlpine Boars Head Crest
O'Connor Coat of arms
Daly (Ó Dálaigh) coat of arms
Arms of Sir John Higgins recorded by Athlone Herald, 1724.
The Northern Uí Néill was any of several dynasties in north-western medieval Ireland that claimed descent from a common ancestor, Niall of the Nine Hostages. Other dynasties in central and eastern Ireland who also claimed descent from Niall are termed the Southern Uí Néill. The dynasties of the Northern Uí Néill were the Cenél Conaill and Cenél nEógain, named after the two most powerful sons of Niall: Conall and Eógain.
Exterior view of Grianan of Aileach situated in County Donegal, Republic of Ireland; the royal fort of the over-kingdom of the Northern Uí Néill; 55°01′24″N 7°25′43″W / 55.023386°N 7.428509°W / 55.023386; -7.428509.