Connor O'Brien | |
|---|---|
| Earl of Thomond | |
| Tenure | 1553–1581 |
| Predecessor | Donogh, 2nd Earl |
| Successor | Donogh, 4th Earl |
| Born | 1535 |
| Died | 1581 |
| Spouse(s) |
|
| Issue Detail | Donough, Daniel, & others |
| Father | Donogh, 2nd Earl of Thomond |
| Mother | Helen Butler |
Connor O'Brien, 3rd Earl of Thomond also spelt Conor and called Groibleach, or the "long-nailed", (Irish: Conchobhar Groibleach Ó Briain; 1535–1581) contended with his uncle Donnell for the Chieftainship of Clan O'Brien from 1535 to 1565. He was confirmed as 3rd Earl of Thomond in 1558 by the Lord Deputy of Ireland, Thomas Radclyffe, 3rd Earl of Sussex. O'Brien intrigued with fitz Maurice in 1569 during the 1st Desmond Rebellion and fled to France. He returned and was pardoned in 1571, being restored to his lands at the end of the rebellion in 1573.