Subject
Ireland -- Politics and government Books
Best books
Charles Kingston
The Viceroys of Ireland
"The Viceroys of Ireland" by Charles Kingston O'Mahony is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the long and complex history of the viceroys who ruled Ireland, detailing their stories and the impact of their governance on Irish society over a period of more than seven hundred years. This comprehensive account seeks to provide readers with insights into the political dynamics between the English crown and the various Irish factions. At the start of this historical narrative, the author introduces the conquest of Ireland by Henry II. The opening chapters focus on the initial attempts at control over the island, recounting battles and the harsh realities faced by the early English rulers, including viceroys such as Hugh de Lacy. O'Mahony emphasizes the fierce resistance of the Irish people and the frequent failures of the English to assert their authority, setting the tone for the struggles that define the relations between Ireland and England throughout history. The text addresses themes of betrayal, power, and the complexities of colonial governance, laying the foundation for a deeper exploration of individual viceroyalties that follow.
Henry B. (Henry Brewster) Stanton
Sketches of Reforms and Reformers, of Great Britain and Ireland
"Sketches of Reforms and Reformers, of Great Britain and Ireland" by Henry B. Stanton is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work presents a broad overview of significant reforms and the individuals who championed them in Great Britain and Ireland from the time of the French Revolution onward. Stanton aims to illuminate the struggles for civil rights and liberties, showcasing the dedication of reformers who fought against systemic oppression and societal injustice. The opening of the book sets the stage for a detailed examination of the "Condition of England" question, emphasizing the historical ties between America and Britain. Stanton discusses the evolution of British society from feudal oppression to a burgeoning reform movement characterized by a growing awareness of civil liberties. He introduces the idea that the struggles faced by the reformers, including sedition trials and clashes with authority, were pivotal in shaping modern governance and concepts of rights. The content hints at narratives surrounding key reformers and movements that emerged as a response to oppressive systems, aiming to engage readers with the dynamic history and the ongoing legacy of these reform efforts.
Unknown
The New Irish Constitution: An Exposition and Some Arguments
"The New Irish Constitution: An Exposition and Some Arguments" by J. H. Morgan is a non-fiction publication written in the early 20th century. The book serves as a comprehensive examination of the proposed new constitutional framework for Ireland, particularly focusing on the implications of the Home Rule movement and the establishment of an Irish Parliament. It discusses the relationship between Irish governance and the broader structure of the United Kingdom, exploring various legal and administrative considerations. The opening of the book presents an introduction by the editor, J. H. Morgan, which outlines the motivation behind the work and provides context for the discussions to follow. Morgan emphasizes the need for a forward-looking analysis of Irish governance rather than a retrospective one, stating the importance of considering both historical arguments and contemporary developments. He introduces the contributors and their respective topics, which cover aspects such as the constitution, judicial authority, financial relations, and the role of the Irish Parliament. This setup indicates a scholarly approach to a critical political issue, inviting readers to engage with the arguments supporting Home Rule and the complexities involved in achieving self-governance in Ireland.
George William Russell
The National Being: Some Thoughts on an Irish Polity
"The National Being: Some Thoughts on an Irish Polity" by George William Russell is a philosophical essay written in the early 20th century. The book examines the character and aspirations of the Irish State, discussing the interplay between the physical and spiritual aspects of national identity. Russell delves into the importance of self-governance and national ideals, urging a reflection on Irish character to forge a path toward a meaningful civilization. The opening of the work introduces the idea of a newly independent Ireland, framed as an "infant State" emerging amid global conflict. Russell likens this state to a child needing nurturing from its guardians to thrive against challenges such as sectarianism. He emphasizes the necessity for a dual focus on both the body and soul of the nation—highlighting characteristics that need to be fostered in Irish society. He sets the stage for a deeper examination of the influences behind Irish identity, urging readers to contemplate how Ireland can develop an original character that respects its historical roots while aspiring toward a cohesive and noble future. Through this introduction, Russell establishes a compelling plea for intellectual and moral development to lay the foundations of what he envisions as a united and thriving Irish nation.
Erskine Childers
The Framework of Home Rule
"The Framework of Home Rule" by Erskine Childers is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the political landscape of Ireland and its quest for self-governance, examining the historical context and constitutional implications of Home Rule. The author advocates for a definite scheme of self-government for Ireland, arguing that any proposal must be grounded in a thorough understanding of the historical Anglo-Irish relationship. The opening of the work establishes Childers' intent to explore the complexities of the Irish situation through a historical lens, emphasizing that any meaningful dialogue on Home Rule must account for the lessons learned from past experiences within the British Empire. He begins by positing that Ireland has, in many ways, been treated as a colony, stripped of the rights and realities afforded to self-governing territories. By grounding his argument in historical precedent, Childers sets the stage for discussing the principles of governance, self-determination, and the financial and political dimensions of the quest for Home Rule, as he contemplates the potential successes and failures of any constitutional proposal put forth for Ireland.
Alice Stopford Green
Irish Nationality
"Irish Nationality" by Alice Stopford Green is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the essence of Irish identity, tracing its roots back to the Gaels in Ireland and their unique social and political systems. It engages with the historical context of Ireland’s interactions with various invaders and cultures, emphasizing the resilience of the Irish spirit and nationalism throughout centuries of external pressures. The opening of the work introduces Ireland as an island shaped by its geographical features and historical isolations, which allowed the Gaels to develop a distinct culture separate from that of Great Britain. Stopford Green outlines the early settlement of the Gaels, their governance through a tribal system that fostered a sense of community and shared heritage, and the various influences from the outside world, particularly Roman and Scandinavian interactions. It sets the stage for a deeper inquiry into how these elements shaped a unique Irish nationality that persisted through invasions and cultural exchanges, establishing a foundation for understanding Irish history and identity.
D. D. (Daniel Desmond) Sheehan
Ireland Since Parnell
"Ireland Since Parnell" by Captain D.D. Sheehan is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work provides a critical narrative of the political landscape in Ireland following the life and influence of Charles Stewart Parnell, exploring themes of leadership, national aspirations, and the struggles that followed Parnell’s downfall. The author reflects on the impact of Parnell's actions and how they shaped the course of Irish politics and society. At the start of the text, Sheehan introduces himself, recounting his early experiences growing up in a politically active family influenced by Irish nationalism. He shares personal memories of eviction and societal upheaval, positioning these experiences against the backdrop of Ireland's political challenges. The opening chapters set the stage for a deep analysis of Parnell’s leadership, his rise to power, and the eventual factionalism that led to his downfall. Sheehan hints at the broader implications of these events on Ireland's quest for autonomy and the complexities of its political factions. Through reflections on Parnell’s era, the author expresses both admiration for the leader and regret for the subsequent chaos that ensued after his leadership ended, promising a comprehensive examination of Ireland's political evolution in the years that followed.
Goldwin Smith
Irish History and the Irish Question
"Irish History and the Irish Question" by Goldwin Smith is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book addresses the tumultuous history of Ireland, focusing on the root causes of the Irish Question and the continual strife that has defined its past. Smith draws on his personal experiences and discussions with prominent Irish reformers to explore this complex issue, providing a narrative that attempts to reconcile historical injustices with contemporary realities. The opening of the text sets the stage for a deep dive into Ireland's troubled past, describing the harsh realities of life under centuries of strife, oppression, and division. Smith reflects on his time spent in Ireland and the conversations he had with influential figures, demonstrating how the historical narrative is shaped by both individual perspectives and broader sociopolitical dynamics. Through a combination of personal insight and historical analysis, Smith begins to unpack the intricate layers of Ireland's history, introducing key themes that will unfold throughout the book, including the impact of colonialism, the importance of land legislation, and the complex interplay of race and religion that continues to influence Irish identity and society.
Robert Mitchell Henry
The Evolution of Sinn Fein
"The Evolution of Sinn Fein" by Robert Mitchell Henry is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book examines the development of the Sinn Fein movement against the backdrop of Irish nationalism and the struggle for independence from British rule. It delves into critical events and ideologies that shaped the political landscape of Ireland, particularly from the late 19th century onwards. At the start of the book, the author introduces the historical context surrounding Irish nationalism, highlighting the tensions produced by British governance and the failures of previous movements to secure independence. Notably, Henry discusses the impact of events such as the Act of Union and the Famine, which exacerbated Irish grievances. The opening portion sets a stage for a deep exploration of how Sinn Fein emerged as a response to systemic oppression and the inadequacies of prior nationalist strategies, emphasizing the necessity of self-reliance and the need for a new approach toward achieving Irish sovereignty.
Anonymous
Is Ulster Right?
"Is Ulster Right?" by Anonymous is a historical account written during the early 20th century. The text engages in an analysis of the political, historical, and financial arguments surrounding the question of Home Rule for Ireland, focusing particularly on the position of Ulster Unionists and their opposition to it. The book serves as a defense of Ulster's stance against the Nationalist Party, discussing the historical context and rationale behind the Unionist position and their claim to equal citizenship in the United Kingdom. The opening of the book introduces the central issue of the Ulster Covenant, wherein a significant number of Ulstermen pledge to resist Home Rule, viewing it as a threat to their civil and religious freedoms. The text underscores the complexities of Irish politics, intertwined with historical grievances, religious identities, and class struggles. It critiques both the Nationalist perspective and the historical narratives surrounding Irish nation's past, arguing against the romanticized notions of a unified Celtic Ireland while asserting that the dynamics of governance and self-rule are more nuanced than they may appear.
Darrell Figgis
The Gaelic State in the past & future : $b or, "The crown of a nation"
"The Gaelic State in the Past & Future; or, ''The Crown of a Nation''" by Darrell Figgis is a historical-political treatise written in the early 20th century. It argues that Ireland’s statehood should be rebuilt from its own historic polity—rooted in Brehon law, landholding tuatha, and functional assemblies—rather than borrowed from imperial or colonial models. Blending analysis and prescription, it reconstructs the workings of the old Gaelic State and outlines how its principles could be modernized into a sovereign, democratic framework. The opening of the work defines a “crowned” nation as one that expresses its spirit through its own State, then contends that Ireland once possessed such sovereignty and must rediscover it by studying its own history. Figgis traces the emergence of a centralized Gaelic polity from Tuathal and Cormac through Tara’s assemblies, the codification of law, and the layered organization of tuatha, brehons, elected kings, and public hospitallers, with land held corporately by the people. He explains how this system functioned, its social equity (including women’s legal standing), and its weaknesses—dynastic succession, disruptive provincial power, and the absence of a national army—which the Norman conquest froze before they could be resolved. He then surveys the broken state: invasion, partial Gaelicization of Norman lords, the Statutes of Kilkenny, Tudor reconquest, Hugh O’Neill’s bid to preserve the tuatha, Cromwellian dispossession, and the people’s quiet return to their lands beneath a landlord layer. The nineteenth-century “resurrection” follows: Emancipation, the Land War’s reassertion of the freeman’s right (including boycotting as a revival of communal sanction), cultural revival via the Gaelic League, and co‑operative societies as modern echoes of stateships. Finally, he turns to the future: discard English administrative molds, complete land purchase, and build a modern Irish State with a representative assembly anchored by specialized national councils (for farming, labour, law, education, defence) and a balancing senate—thus translating the old Gaelic polity into contemporary form.
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