Nick Maxwell There was a time when Irish boys were free to choose their own school readers … being sturdy lads, born into a heritage of suffering and persecution, the spirit of resistance burning in their veins, it is not surprising that the reading book they liked best was a cheap little work containing an account of the daring deeds of famous … Read more
The historiography of Irish monasticism emphasises the glory and piety of this enlightened era, with its myriad of saints espousing high art and learning, and not only moulding this island but also making a resounding impact on Europe. Raiding and warring might seem anathema to this ostensibly spiritual world, but the numerous references to plundering … Read more
This exceptional offer became possible after an agreement between the governments of Australia and the United Kingdom resulted in the Assisted Passage Scheme. Almost one miIlion people took advantage of the cheaprate passage to start a new life Down Under. During the period covered by the scheme (1947-71) 991 ,431 British subjects received an assisted … Read more
by James S. Donnelly, Jr For revisionist historians the publication in 1962 of The Great Hunger: Ireland 1845-1849 by Cecil Woodham-Smith was not an altogether welcome event. Perhaps they envied the book’s commercial success: The Great Hunger was immediately a best-seller on two continents, and its premier status as the most widely read Irish history … Read more