The Irish Confederate Wars (1641-1653) were a series of conflicts in Ireland during the wider context of the English Civil War. The wars began when Irish Catholics, seeking greater autonomy and religious freedom, formed the Confederation of Kilkenny in 1642. They fought against English Parliamentarian forces and loyalists to the English crown, leading to a struggle for control over Ireland. The conflict saw significant battles, including the Battle of Benburb in 1646, and ended with the defeat of the Confederates. The wars concluded with the Cromwellian Conquest of Ireland, resulting in harsh penalties for the Irish Catholic population and significant land confiscations.