The Irish surname Connell is an anglicized form of Gaelic Ó Conaill meaning “descendant of Conall,” a personal name, composed of the elements con, from cú meaning  “a hound or a wolf” and galmeaning “valor.” The Connell's claim descend from Aengue Tuirmeach, who was High King of Ireland in circa 180 B.C., the clan being from County Kerry in the south-west of Ireland. The Barony of Magunihy, in which the city of Killarney is situated, is still the homeland of the leading family of  Connell. The list of famous namebearers include Daniel O' Connell (1775 - 1847), known as 'The Liberator". He played an important role in the fight for Catholic emancipation throughout Britain but specifically in Ireland.