1578 in Ireland

Events

• In retaliation for the Massacre of Mullaghmast, Rory Óg Ó Moore, leader of the Ó Moore clan in County Laois, burns Carlow, but is hunted down and trapped.
• The ship Emanuel, returning from Martin Frobisher's third voyage to Frobisher Bay, is wrecked at Ard na Caithne.
• Barnabe Rich publishes Alarme to England.

  Births

• 14 December – Joan Apsley, first wife of Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of Cork

  Deaths

• June – Rory Óg Ó Moore, rebel leader.