Subject
Ireland -- Politics and government -- 1837-1901 Books
Best books
Robert John Buckley
Ireland as it is, and as it would be under Home Rule
"Ireland as It Is, and as It Would Be Under Home Rule" by Robert John Buckley is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work comprises a series of letters penned by the author, who acted as the Special Commissioner for a Birmingham newspaper, capturing the sentiment around the contentious Home Rule debate in Ireland around 1893. The text reflects on the political climate, societal tensions, and the implications of the proposed Home Rule legislation, illustrating the conflict between Irish Nationalists and Unionists. The opening of the book sets the stage for the author's observations as he arrives in Dublin amidst intense discussions about Home Rule, capturing the palpable anxiety and fervid opposition among the industrial community and the educated classes. Buckley documents encounters with various individuals, revealing the wide range of opinions and the deep-seated fears regarding the potential outcomes of Home Rule legislation. Notably, he emphasizes the contrast between Dublin's anxious upper classes and the more incredulous and hopeful perspectives of the poorer, less educated communities, illustrating a complex and nuanced view of the Irish socio-political landscape at the time.
John Denvir
The Life Story of an Old Rebel
"The Life Story of an Old Rebel" by John Denvir is a historical narrative written in the early 20th century. The work recounts the author’s experiences and memories as an Irish nationalist living in Britain, detailing the struggles for Irish self-governance and the cultural identity of the Irish diaspora. Denvir highlights the influence of significant Irish political figures and movements throughout his life while illustrating the connections between the Irish in Britain and their homeland. At the start of this memoir, Denvir expresses his identity as an "old rebel" who has dedicated his life to the fight against injustice, particularly concerning the plight of the Irish people. He reflects on his early life as an Irish immigrant in Liverpool, discussing his family's move to England and the vibrant Irish community they became part of. Denvir's early memories capture the challenges faced by Irish immigrants, the political activism they undertook, and their efforts to maintain cultural ties to Ireland, effectively setting the stage for his later reflections on the larger political and social movements that shaped Irish identity abroad.
William Henry Hurlbert
Ireland Under Coercion: The Diary of an American (2 of 2) (2nd ed.) (1888)
"Ireland Under Coercion: The Diary of an American" by William Henry Hurlbert is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work recounts the observations and reflections of an American visiting Ireland during a tumultuous period marked by tenant evictions, landlord-tenant conflicts, and the broader social and political implications of coercive measures taken by British authorities. The narrative, structured as a diary, offers a firsthand account of the struggles faced by Irish tenants in their fight for rights and fair treatment. The opening of the diary introduces readers to the tense atmosphere surrounding the impending eviction of a tenant on the Glenbehy estate, revealing the intricate dynamics between tenants, landlords, and the authorities. Hurlbert describes his journey through various locations in Ireland, highlighting events such as conversations with local priests like Father Little, who advocates for his parishioners, and participants in the ongoing conflicts. As he witnesses the eviction proceedings, Hurlbert paints a vivid picture of the emotional and social repercussions, exposing the broader context of Ireland's tenant rights movement and the complexities of its deeply rooted issues.
William Henry Hurlbert
Ireland Under Coercion: The Diary of an American (1 of 2) (2nd ed.) (1888)
"Ireland Under Coercion: The Diary of an American" by William Henry Hurlbert is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work presents a detailed narrative of Hurlbert's observations and conversations gathered during his travels in Ireland between January and June 1888, aiming to explore the complex socio-political landscape of the time. The book likely addresses the tensions surrounding Irish nationalism, political coercion, and the influence of American sentiment on Irish affairs. The opening of the narrative details Hurlbert's arrival in Dublin and his interactions upon landing at Kingstown. He shares his journey from London, which included a conversation with strangers discussing royalist sentiments, and his explorations of local issues, like the prosecution of Father M'Fadden for his role in the "Plan of Campaign." Hurlbert's reflections provide insight into the ways in which political, social, and cultural currents intersect in Ireland, illustrating a landscape filled with agitation, reform movements, and the complexities of identity. His observations not only set the stage for his commentary on the state of Ireland but also hint at the conflicting sentiments found within the Irish-American community.
Unknown
Handbook of Home Rule: Being Articles on the Irish Question
"Handbook of Home Rule: Being Articles on the Irish Question" by W. E. Gladstone et al. is a collection of essays focused on the contentious issues surrounding the governance of Ireland, likely written in the late 19th century. This compilation features contributions from notable figures, including Gladstone himself, as well as John Morley and James Bryce, who engage in a rational discussion aimed at elucidating the principles behind the Home Rule movement and addressing the intricacies of Irish governance during a period marked by social and political turmoil. The opening of this volume sets the stage for a thoughtful examination of the pressing Irish question, emphasizing the necessity for a thoughtful analysis rather than one steeped in the controversy of the times. In the preface, the writers express a commitment to addressing the Irish issue with impartiality and historical context, aiming to reconnect the public to the foundational principles that should govern the debate. They point to a perceived disconnect between the English ruling class and the Irish populace, fueled by historical grievances and unmet aspirations for self-governance. The text reveals an urgent call for a reconsideration of the existing political structures and reflects a hope that rational discourse can lead to a resolution that respects both the national sentiment in Ireland and the stability of the United Kingdom.
A. M. (Alexander Martin) Sullivan
The "Wearing of the Green," or The Prosecuted Funeral Procession
"Wearing of the Green," or The Prosecuted Funeral Procession by A. M. Sullivan is a historical narrative produced in the late 19th century, specifically 1868. The text revolves around the profound national sorrow and outrage that erupted in Ireland following the executions of three Irish Fenians—Allen, Larkin, and O'Brien—who were hanged for their alleged involvement in terrorism, causing public opinion to rally in mourning and protest. Sullivan details the ceremonial funeral processions organized as a response to these executions, illustrating the deep intertwining of religion, nationalism, and protest within Irish society. The opening of the narrative outlines the immediate emotional fallout in Ireland following the Manchester executions, depicting the shock and grief that gripped the nation. It highlights how the Catholic clergy took the initiative to mourn publicly, leading to a series of Requiem Masses that symbolically connected the deceased to the collective national pride and despair. This emotional tide flooded into organized funeral processions in various cities, particularly Cork and Dublin, emphasizing the importance of the dead as martyrs for the Irish cause. Sullivan presents vivid imagery of the processions, showcasing the unity and determination of the Irish people, transcending political divisions in their quest for justice and remembrance in the face of oppression.
W. E. (William Ewart) Gladstone
The Speeches (In Full) of the Rt. Hon. W. E. Gladstone, M.P., and William O'Brien, M.P., on Home Rule, Delivered in Parliament, Feb. 16 and 17, 1888.
"The Speeches (In Full) of the Rt. Hon. W. E. Gladstone, M.P., and William O'Brien, M.P., on Home Rule, Delivered in Parliament, Feb. 16 and 17, 1888," is a collection of political speeches published in the late 19th century. This work captures a significant moment in British-Irish relations, focusing on the contentious issue of Home Rule for Ireland as articulated by two prominent figures of the time. The speeches highlight the deep political divide regarding governance in Ireland, underscoring themes of national identity, rights, and the complexities of colonial rule. The opening portion of this collection introduces the arguments presented by W. E. Gladstone, who critiques the government's handling of the Home Rule question and aims to address the complexities involved in the relationship between Britain and Ireland. He emphasizes the need for honest discussion surrounding pivotal issues such as public meetings, landlord-tenant relations, and the treatment of political prisoners, framing these matters as rooted in the broader aspirations for Irish self-governance. Gladstone stresses the importance of recognizing the legitimate national aspirations of Ireland while defending his stance against accusations and misrepresentations from opposing members of Parliament. His remarks pave the way for the evolving political landscape of Ireland, setting the stage for the subsequent speech by William O'Brien, who focuses on the failures of the government to suppress the Irish response to the coercive measures enacted against them.
T. W. (Thomas William) Rolleston
Ireland and Poland: A Comparison
"Ireland and Poland: A Comparison" by T. W. Rolleston is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book examines and contrasts the political, social, and economic conditions of Ireland and Poland under their respective governing powers during a time of significant reform and national identity struggles. The likely topic of the book is the exploration of national rights, governance, and the treatment of these two distinct nationalities under British and German dominion. In this comparative analysis, Rolleston outlines the historical context of Ireland and Poland, highlighting the reforms in Ireland that aimed to improve the lives of its inhabitants while contrasting them with the severe repressive measures faced by the Polish under German rule. He emphasizes various advancements made in Ireland, such as land reform, educational opportunities, and local governance, which fostered a sense of autonomy and progress. Rolleston argues that while Ireland has made notable strides toward equity and self-governance, Poland's plight is marked by oppression and cultural eradication. Throughout the book, he aims to debunk the narrative that portrays Ireland as a member of the subjugated nationalities, instead presenting it as a nation making positive progress within the framework of the United Kingdom.
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