FitzGerald ~ Mac Gearailt

The Story of the FitzGerald Name

FitzGerald is an Anglo-Norman name meaning “son of Gerald.” The name was brought to Ireland by the FitzGerald family following the Norman arrival in the late twelfth century and was eventually Gaelicized as Mac Gearailt.

The FitzGeralds became one of the most powerful families in medieval Ireland, establishing two great branches. The FitzGeralds of Kildare became the leading family of Leinster, while the FitzGeralds of Desmond built their power in Munster, particularly County Kerry. Their lands, castles, and titles made them among the most influential families in Ireland.

Over generations, the FitzGeralds adopted much of the Irish language and customs, becoming so deeply woven into Irish society that they were famously described as being “more Irish than the Irish themselves.” Their story reflects the remarkable transformation of the Anglo-Norman families who arrived in Ireland and gradually became part of the Gaelic world.

Behind the familiar name FitzGerald lies a story of arrival, adaptation, and belonging. From the castles and earldoms of Kildare and Kerry to the generations who carried the name forward, the FitzGeralds became one of the great families in the story of Ireland.