The Irish Kingdoms were a collection of independent territories that existed in Ireland from the early medieval period until the 17th century. Each kingdom was ruled by a local king and had its own laws, customs, and culture. Notable kingdoms included Ulster, Munster, Connacht, and Leinster, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Irish history. These kingdoms often engaged in alliances and conflicts with one another, shaping the political landscape of Ireland. The arrival of the Normans in the 12th century began to change the dynamics, leading to the eventual consolidation of power and the decline of the independent kingdoms.