3. Medieval Irish historical tradition held that Ireland had been ruled by an ArdRi or High King since ancient times, and compilations like the LeborGabála Erenn, followed by early modern works like the Annals of the Four Masters and Geoffrey Keating's ForasFeasaarÉirinn, purported to trace the line of High Kings.
4. The traditional list of High Kings of Ireland is thus a mixture of fact, legend, fiction, and propaganda. The individuals appearing prior to the fifth century AD are generally considered legendary, and the application of the title to individuals before the ninth century is considered anachronistic.
