Nick Maxwell The story of Florence Lea (right), who wore this ‘On War Service’ badge (above right), is typical of the experiences of female munitions workers in Ireland during World War I. Their story is represented in the ‘Soldiers and Chiefs’ exhibition at the National Museum of Ireland by the 18-pounder shells they made, the photos of … Read more
The German sociologist Max Weber was noted for his interest in how the geopolitical position of states affected their domestic politics. Revolutions, civil wars and coups d’état often came ‘from the outside in’, as changes in the international arena weakened central authorities and exposed dominant élites to challenges from below. In contrast, much of … Read more
Buried in the small print of the recent budget was an announcement that the government intends to merge the National Library (NLI), the National Archives (NAI) and the Irish Manuscripts Commission (IMC). Reaction was muted: opponents of the ‘plan’ could hardly compete with the ignited passions of the nation’s septuagenarians facing imminent loss of their … Read more
The maritime town of Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim, has experienced several eras of military history since its foundation in medieval times. By the mid-Victorian period it was a significant barracks town, hosting the Antrim Artillery, a locally raised unit that provided coastal defence for this part of Ireland as well as sending artillerymen overseas to assist … Read more
Election campaigns are usually opportunities for cynical self-promotion rather than self-reflection. But when standing for election to parliament in 1828, Daniel O’Connell chose to make an honest confession about his wild early life. After the nomination of candidates in Ennis on 30 June, he took the opportunity to discuss a time ‘when the blood was … Read more