The Penal Laws were a series of laws in Ireland, primarily enacted in the 17th and 18th centuries, aimed at restricting the rights of Catholics and Protestants who were not members of the Church of Ireland. These laws enforced discrimination in various aspects of life, including land ownership, education, and political participation, effectively marginalizing the Catholic majority. The laws were part of a broader effort to maintain Protestant dominance in Ireland following the Williamite War and the subsequent Treaty of Limerick. Over time, many of these laws were repealed, particularly in the 19th century, as movements for Catholic Emancipation gained momentum, leading to greater equality and rights for Catholics in Ireland.