in 1169, anglo-norman lords invaded ireland. they were led by strongbow who landed at passage east, co. waterford. the anglo-normans conquered many parts of ireland in the following 60 years. they introduced their way of life to the irish people. the feudal system was soon introduced in ireland as a means of organising land. castles were built to defend the land like trim castle, co. meath. during the middle ages, ireland's first proper towns were built.