The Kingdom of Ulster was a historic Gaelic kingdom located in the northern part of what is now Ireland. It existed from the early medieval period until the 17th century and was known for its rich culture and strong warrior tradition. The kingdom was ruled by various dynasties, with the Uí Néill and O'Neill families being among the most prominent. Ulster played a significant role in the history of Ireland, particularly during the Tudor conquest in the 16th century. The kingdom's territory eventually became part of the Plantation of Ulster, a major settlement scheme that transformed the region's demographics and land ownership. Today, Ulster is one of the four provinces of Ireland, encompassing both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.