Ireland History Exam
Terms:
Clontarf
Battle of Clontarf, (April 23, 1014), large military encounter fought near the modern Dublin suburb of Clontarf, between an Irish army led by Brian Boru and a coalition of the Irish kingdom of Leinster, the Hiberno-Scandinavian kingdom of Dublin, and Vikings from afar afield as Orkney, Iceland, and Normandy. The loss of life was considerable —greater than average contemporary encounters, with perhaps several thousand killed—and the outcome inconclusive, but it is generally considered a pyrrhic victory for Brian’s side.
Jamestown
USS Jamestown, (April 13, 1847) The ship that brought supplies to the Irish. Captained by Robert Bennet Forbes.
Charlestown Convent
The Charlestown Convent, also known as the Ursuline Convent, was a Catholic institution established in 1819 in Charlestown, Massachusetts (now part of Somerville). The convent was home to the Ursuline Order of nuns, who ran a school for girls and provided education to both Catholic and Protestant students. However, the convent became the target of a Protestant mob on the night of August 11, 1834, which led to its destruction and burning.
On August 11, 1834, a Protestant mob, allegedly fueled by the Boston Truckmen, a quasi-police organization, attacked the convent. The mob demanded to see Harrison, and when the Mother Superior refused, they began to destroy the convent’s fence and used the wood to feed a roaring bonfire. The fire alarm was sounded, but Charlestown’s Protestant firefighters did nothing to extinguish the blaze. The convent was left in ruins, and the nuns and students were forced to flee for their lives.
Lace Curtain Irish
Lace Curtain Irish refers to a social class of Irish Americans, particularly those who immigrated from Ireland in the 19th and early 20th centuries. They were characterized by their middle-class or better socioeconomic status, reflected in their lifestyle, housing, and cultural practices.
Key characteristics of Lace Curtain Irish include:
Residing in single-family homes with lace curtains, symbolizing economic well-being and cultural refinement
Often holding public sector jobs or working in white-collar professions
Sending children to Catholic schools and encouraging higher education
Embracing a more refined and cultured lifestyle, distinct from their working-class or “shanty Irish” counterparts
The term “Lace Curtain Irish” is often contrasted with “Shanty Irish,” which referred to those who remained poor and working-class, often living in tenements or rough-hewn cabins. The distinction between these two groups was particularly pronounced in urban areas like Boston, where neighborhoods like West Roxbury were seen as more affluent and respectable, while areas like Southie were considered rougher and more working-class.
1863 Draft Law
The 1863 Draft Law, also known as the Enrollment Act or Civil War Military Draft Act, was a significant legislation passed by the United States Congress during the American Civil War. Here are its key provisions:
Eligibility: All able-bodied male citizens and immigrants who had applied for citizenship between the ages of 20 and 45 were required to register for the draft.
Registration: Enrollment was to be completed by April 1, 1863, with each county involved in the selection process.
Exemptions: Those who could pay a $300 fee (approximately $5,000 today) were exempt from service. Substitution and commutation were also allowed, allowing citizens to find a substitute or pay the fee to avoid the draft.
Conscription: The law established the first national draft system, requiring all eligible males to be enrolled and available for military service.
Purpose: The draft was intended to replenish the Union Army’s dwindling ranks, as volunteering had slowed significantly by 1863.
Impact: The 1863 Draft Law marked a significant shift in the Union’s recruitment strategy, moving from voluntary enlistment to compulsory service. While it faced criticism and resistance, particularly among those who could afford to pay the exemption fee, it ultimately helped to maintain a steady supply of troops for the Union Army throughout the remainder of the Civil War.
Battle of the Boyne
The Battle of the Boyne was a pivotal conflict fought on July 1, 1690 (12 July according to the modern calendar), along the River Boyne in County Meath, Ireland. The battle pitted the forces of King William III (William of Orange) against those of King James II, with both monarchs claiming the thrones of England, Scotland, and Ireland.
Penal Laws
The Penal Laws were a series of laws enacted in Great Britain and Ireland from the 17th to the 18th centuries to restrict the rights and freedoms of Roman Catholics and Protestant Dissenters. The primary objective was to enforce the State-decreed religious monopoly of the Church of England and Presbyterianism in Scotland, against the continued existence of illegal and underground communities of Catholics.
Strongbow
Richard de Clare, also known as Strongbow, was a powerful Anglo-Norman nobleman who played a significant role in the Norman invasion of Ireland in the late 12th century. He was born around 1130 and was the 2nd Earl of Pembroke.
Strongbow landed in Ireland in 1170, at the request of Dermot MacMurrough, the King of Leinster, who sought his assistance in regaining his power. In return, MacMurrough promised Strongbow his daughter Aoife in marriage. Strongbow’s army, consisting of around 200 knights and 1,000 other troops, attacked Waterford and eventually captured Dublin in 1170.
Strongbow’s military campaigns led to the capture of several key Irish territories, including Leinster, Wexford, and Waterford. He was granted these lands by King Henry II of England, who sought to assert his authority over Ireland. Strongbow’s conquests marked the beginning of English sovereignty in Ireland, and he became one of the most powerful men in medieval Ireland.
San Patricious
The San Patricios, also known as Saint Patrick’s Battalion, were a group of Irish immigrants who deserted the United States Army during the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) to fight on behalf of Mexico. Led by Irish native John Riley, they were motivated by a sense of unity and camaraderie rooted in their shared Irish identity and Catholic faith.
Coffin Ships
Coffin ships were notorious vessels that transported Irish migrants fleeing the Great Famine (1845-1855) and Highlanders displaced by the Highland Clearances. These overcrowded and unsanitary ships became infamous for their appalling conditions, leading to the deaths of thousands of people during the Atlantic crossing.
Thomas Meagher
Thomas Francis Meagher was an Irish nationalist and leader of the Young Irelanders in the Rebellion of 1848. Born on August 3, 1823, in Waterford, County Waterford, Ireland, he was a key figure in the fight for Irish independence. After being convicted of sedition, Meagher was initially sentenced to death but received transportation for life to Van Diemen’s Land (now Tasmania).
Meagher later emigrated to the United States, where he became a prominent figure in the Irish-American community. He joined the Young Ireland Party in 1845 and co-founded the Irish Confederation in 1847, dedicated to achieving Irish independence.
During the American Civil War, Meagher served as a Union officer, rising to the rank of Brigadier General. He led the Irish Brigade, comprising Irish-American soldiers, in several battles, including the First Battle of Bull Run, Peninsula Campaign, Battle of Antietam, Battle of Fredericksburg, and Battle of Chancellorsville.Know Nothings
Ambrose Bunrside
Ambrose Everts Burnside (May 23, 1824 – September 13, 1881) was a prominent American army officer, politician, inventor, and industrialist.
In summary, Burnside’s strategic decisions were marked by both successes and failures. His aggressive but poorly planned assaults at Fredericksburg and the Crater led to significant Union losses, while his more cautious approach during the Maryland Campaign and North Carolina Expedition yielded mixed results. Ultimately, Burnside’s military campaigns reflected the complexities and challenges of the American Civil War, where strategic decisions often had far-reaching consequences.
Thomas Nast
Thomas Nast was a German-born American caricaturist and editorial cartoonist, born on September 26, 1840, in Landau, Rhine Palatinate, Bavaria (now Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany). He is widely regarded as the “Father of the American Cartoon” for his influential work in defining American political cartoons in the decades following the Civil War.
Thomas Nast’s work continues to be celebrated for its impact on American political cartoons and illustration
He is remembered as one of the most successful political cartoonists of all time, with his creations, such as the Republican elephant and modern Santa Claus, remaining iconic symbols in American culture.
Grattan’s Parliament
Grattan’s Parliament refers to the Irish Parliament that existed from 1782 to 1800, during which time Ireland gained significant legislative independence from Great Britain. This period was marked by a series of reforms and concessions, led by Henry Grattan, a prominent Irish politician.
Legislative Independence: The Constitution of 1782, passed by both the Irish and British Parliaments, reduced the British government’s ability to make laws for Ireland and hear court cases relating to Ireland.
Reduced British Control: The Irish Parliament gained more autonomy, with the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland’s powers limited to setting the parliamentary agenda and restricting legislation contrary to British objectives.
Patriot Party Influence: Henry Grattan, leader of the Patriot Party, played a crucial role in promoting legislative independence and shaping the Parliament’s decisions.
Borough Patronage: Despite increased autonomy, the Irish Parliament remained largely controlled by Protestant landed gentry and borough patrons, who sold their seats for significant sums of money.
Bible Riots
In May 1844, Philadelphia witnessed a series of violent riots, known as the Bible Riots, sparked by a controversy over the use of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible in public schools. The riots were fueled by tensions between Catholic and Protestant communities, with nativist groups seeking to exclude Catholics from public life.
On May 6, 1844, a nativist rally in Kensington, a predominantly Irish Catholic neighborhood, turned violent. Shots were fired, and the riot escalated, with Irish Catholics and nativists clashing in the streets. Over three days, two major Catholic churches and numerous buildings were destroyed or damaged.
The Bible Riots of 1844 highlighted the tensions between Catholic and Protestant communities in Philadelphia and the broader United States. The riots also underscored the importance of separating church and state in public education, as well as the need for greater understanding and tolerance between different religious groups.
Theobald Mathew
Theobald Mathew (1790-1856) was a renowned Irish temperance reformer and Catholic priest. Born in Tipperary, Ireland, he was educated at Maynooth and joined the Capuchins in Dublin. After ordination in 1814, he took charge of the Little Friary among the destitute in Cork, where he established free schools and founded a charitable society in the tradition of St. Vincent de Paul.
As a temperance apostle, Mathew spoke out against drinking alcohol and practiced abstinence himself. He founded the Total Abstinence Movement, which at its peak had roughly half of Ireland’s population as members. His efforts earned him the nickname “Father Mathew” and recognition as a leading figure in the Irish temperance movement.
Awful Disclosures
Maria Monk's book, “Awful Disclosures of Maria Monk, or, The Hidden Secrets of a Nun’s Life in a Convent Exposed” (1836), claimed to expose systematic sexual abuse of nuns and infanticide of resulting children by Catholic priests in the Hôtel-Dieu convent in Montreal. The book was a bestseller and sparked widespread outrage and controversy.
However, it is widely acknowledged that Maria Monk’s story was likely fabricated or heavily embellished. Her mother described her as an uncontrollable child, and some historians believe that Monk may have suffered from a brain injury or mental health issues. Additionally, numerous errors and inconsistencies were found in her account, leading many to question its authenticity.
Flight of the Earls
The Flight of the Earls: A Watershed Event in Irish History In September 1607, Hugh O’Neill, Earl of Tyrone, and Rory O’Donnell, 1st Earl of Tyrconnell, along with approximately ninety followers, left Ulster in Ireland for mainland Europe. This permanent exile marked the end of the old Gaelic order and had significant consequences for Irish history.
The Flight of the Earls remains a significant event in Irish history, marking the end of the Gaelic order and the beginning of a new era of English dominance. It also served as a metaphor for the larger Irish diaspora that followed, as many Irish people left their homeland in search of new opportunities and a better life.
Battle of Ridgeway
The Battle of Ridgeway was a conflict fought on June 2, 1866, near the village of Ridgeway, Canada West (now Ontario, Canada), between Canadian militia volunteers and Irish-American invaders, the Fenians. The Fenians, a group of Irish nationalists, sought to free Ireland from British rule by attacking British North America from the United States.
The Fenian army, led by Colonel John O’Neill, consisted of approximately 600 Irish veterans of the American Civil War. Many had fought for the Union and were familiar with modern warfare tactics. They carried green flags emblazoned with the letters “IRA” (Irish Republican Army), an early use of this acronym.
Catholic Association
The Catholic Association was an Irish Roman Catholic political organization founded by Daniel O’Connell in the early 19th century to campaign for Catholic emancipation within Great Britain. It was one of the first mass-membership political movements in Europe.
Initially, the association was composed mainly of the middle-class elite, with an annual subscription amounting to a guinea (equivalent to six months’ rent for an average farmer). In 1824, the association began using its funds to campaign for Catholic emancipation. To stimulate growth, a new category of associate members was introduced at a penny a month, known as the “Catholic Rent.” This move removed class-based entry barriers, allowing Catholics from poorer backgrounds to join. The association’s numbers swelled, and its influence grew.
The Catholic Association played a significant role in shaping Irish history, ultimately contributing to the eventual repeal of the Act of Union and the granting of Catholic emancipation. Its innovative membership model and grassroots mobilization tactics influenced later political movements.
James Stephens
James Stephens was born in Dublin in February 1880, but his birth is somewhat shrouded in mystery. He claimed to have been born on the same day and same year as James Joyce (2 February 1882), although this is likely an error.
After his father’s death in 1882, Stephens was taken in by the Collins family, where his mother worked as a servant. He was adopted by the family, along with his two brothers, Thomas and Richard (Tom and Dick).
Education and Career Stephens attended school with his adopted brothers before graduating as a solicitor’s clerk in 1896. He left school and began working as a clerk-typist in Dublin.
Literary Work James Stephens is best known for his retellings of Irish myths and fairy tales, marked by a rare combination of humor and lyricism. His notable works include “Deirdre” and “Irish Fairy Tales”, which are often praised for their unique style. He also wrote several original novels, such as “Crock of Gold”, “Etched in Moonlight”, and “Demi-Gods”, loosely based on Irish fairy tales.
Biographical Notes Stephens’ life is characterized by his adoption by the Collins family and his early education with his brothers. His literary career focused on retelling Irish myths and fairy tales, showcasing his unique blend of humor and lyricism.
Note: The provided information does not include a detailed account of Stephens’ life after 1896, as the available data is limited to his early life, education, and literary work.
Silken Thomas
Silken Thomas Fitzgerald (1513-1537) was the 10th Earl of Kildare and a prominent Irish nobleman who led a major rebellion against King Henry VIII of England. Born in London, England, Thomas was the son of Gerald FitzGerald, 9th Earl of Kildare, and was raised to lead the Fitzgerald family’s hereditary viceroyalty of Ireland.
The rebellion of Silken Thomas marked the beginning of a chapter in Irish history that would become known as the Fitzgerald dynasty’s downfall. The failure of the uprising ended the family’s hereditary viceroyalty of Ireland and led to the tightening of English control over the country.
Possible Short Answers:
Why wasn’t Lieut. John Riley executed by the US Army?
According to the search results, Lieut. John Riley was not executed by the US Army because he deserted before the US declared war against Mexico in 1846. As a result, he was not sentenced to death following his conviction at the court martial held in Mexico City in 1847.
Riley testified that he deserted due to discrimination against and mistreatment of Irish Catholics in the US Army, as well as anti-Catholic sentiment he encountered in the United States. His desertion occurred before the US declared war against Mexico, which meant he was not subject to the military’s capital punishment for desertion during wartime.
Instead, Riley was branded on his cheek with the letter “D” for deserter and released. He later rejoined the Mexican forces and continued to serve with the regular Mexican Army after the war, eventually rising to the rank of “Permanent Major”.
Why did the Young Irelanders split with O’Connell in 1846?
The Young Irelanders split with Daniel O’Connell in 1846 over his insistence on non-violence and his “Peace Resolutions” presented to the Loyal National Repeal Association (LNRA) on July 11, 1846. The Young Irelanders, led by William Smith O’Brien, refused to accept these resolutions unconditionally, as they believed that the use of physical force might be justified in certain circumstances to achieve Irish independence.
O’Connell’s “Peace Resolutions” demanded the absolute renunciation of the use of physical force in pursuit of national aims by all members of the LNRA. The Young Irelanders, who were the most dynamic and influential Repealers of the younger generation, were unwilling to accept this principle unconditionally. They argued that while they were not advocating physical force at that moment, if Repeal could not be carried by moral persuasion and peaceful means, they believed a resort to arms would be a no less honourable course.
The split was further exacerbated by O’Connell’s perceived compromise and clericalism, which the Young Irelanders saw as betraying the ideals of the Repeal movement. They also resented O’Connell’s authoritarian style and his attempts to suppress dissent within the movement.
In July 1846, the Young Irelanders left the Repeal Association, and O’Brien became the leader of the new Irish Confederation, which was established as a purified alternative to the LNRA. The dispute persisted after O’Connell’s death in May 1847 and prevented an effective national response to the horrors of the Great Famine, which devastated Ireland between 1846 and 1849.
Was Daniel O’Connell able to secure much aid for the Irish during the Famine? Explain.
During the Great Famine (1845-1852), Daniel O’Connell, a prominent Irish politician, led calls for increased aid to alleviate the suffering of the Irish people. Despite his efforts, O’Connell was unable to secure significant aid for Ireland from the British government.
O’Connell’s Final Plea
In February 1847, as the famine worsened, O’Connell’s health was failing. He traveled to London to make a last-ditch appeal to the House of Commons, urging the British government to provide more substantial aid to Ireland. However, his plea fell on deaf ears, and the government continued to provide inadequate support.
Limited Donations from Abroad
While some donations did arrive from abroad, primarily from Germany and Switzerland (£4,500) and Spain and Portugal (£1,000), these amounts were insufficient to make a meaningful impact on the scale of the disaster.
O’Connell’s Focus on Repeal of the Act of Union
O’Connell’s primary focus was on achieving an Irish parliament, which he believed would provide long-term solutions to Ireland’s problems, including poverty and lack of employment. He argued that repeal of the Act of Union was essential for Ireland’s independence and self-governance. While this goal was not directly related to immediate famine relief, it reflects O’Connell’s broader vision for Ireland’s future.
In summary, despite his efforts, Daniel O’Connell was unable to secure significant aid for the Irish during the Great Famine. The British government’s response was inadequate, and international donations were limited. O’Connell’s focus on achieving an Irish parliament and repeal of the Act of Union reflects his long-term vision for Ireland’s independence and self-governance.
In the Irish folk song, “Four Green Fields,” one of the old woman’s fields was taken by strangers. To what is the songwriter referring?
Based on the search results, the songwriter, Tommy Makem, is referring to the British colonization of Ireland. The “strangers” who took one of the old woman’s (Ireland’s) fields represent the British forces that occupied parts of Ireland, particularly Ulster, which remained part of the United Kingdom after the Irish Free State separated. This is a metaphorical representation of the British colonization of Ireland, with the four green fields symbolizing the four provinces of Ireland: Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connacht.
The song’s lyrics and symbolism convey the themes of loss, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Irish people, as they struggled to defend their land against British occupation. The old woman, personifying Ireland, mourns the loss of one of her fields, representing the displacement and fragmentation of Irish territory.
How did Wolfe Tone die?
According to the search results, Wolfe Tone died by cutting his own throat while in captivity in Dublin’s Provost Prison on November 19, 1798, at the age of 35. This is supported by multiple sources, including the inquest held on November 20, 1798, where the sentinel who guarded Tone and the prison’s commander, William Sandys, testified that Tone acknowledged having inflicted the wound on himself. This account contradicts earlier theories of suicide, with some sources suggesting that Tone was murdered, but the majority of evidence points to self-inflicted harm as the cause of his death.
What did Catherine McAuley do with her inheritance?
Catherine McAuley built a large house on Baggot Street in Dublin, Ireland, which she called the House of Mercy. With her inheritance, she established a school for poor girls and a shelter for homeless servant girls and women. The House of Mercy provided a safe haven for those in need, offering education, care, and support.
Initially, Catherine divided her time between the House of Mercy and Coolock House, her brother-in-law’s home. Later, she and her companions, including Anna Maria Doyle and Catherine Byrne, moved into the House of Mercy, where they continued their work.
Catherine’s inheritance enabled her to fulfill her long-held desire to serve the poor and vulnerable, and her House of Mercy became a beacon of hope and compassion in Dublin.
List two reasons why so many Irish volunteered to serve in the Mexican War and the Civil War.
Based on the provided search results, here are two reasons why many Irish volunteers served in the Mexican War and the Civil War:
Anti-Catholic and anti-Irish sentiment in the US: During both conflicts, Irish immigrants faced discrimination and prejudice due to their Catholic faith and nationality. In the Mexican-American War, Irish soldiers were subjected to anti-Catholic sentiment among US volunteers, with some forced to attend Protestant services and denied the right to attend mass in Mexican churches. This climate of prejudice motivated many Irish soldiers to desert the US Army and join the Mexican forces, as seen in the case of the Saint Patrick’s Battalion. Similarly, during the American Civil War, Irish immigrants were often viewed with suspicion by Protestant Americans, leading some to seek opportunities with the Union or Confederate armies that would better accommodate their Catholic beliefs and cultural identity.
Economic and social opportunities: For many Irish immigrants, volunteering in the Mexican War and the Civil War offered a means to improve their economic and social prospects. In the Mexican War, Irish soldiers were promised citizenship and land grants by the Mexican government, which was more attractive than the limited opportunities available to them in the US. Similarly, during the Civil War, Irish immigrants saw opportunities to gain citizenship, land, and social status by fighting for the Union or Confederacy. Additionally, the war provided a chance for Irish soldiers to gain valuable combat experience and skills, which could be leveraged for better employment and social standing after the conflict.
What were the American and Irish wings of the Fenians quarreling over?
Based on the provided search results, the American and Irish wings of the Fenians were quarreling over strategic approaches to achieving Irish independence from British rule. Specifically:
The American wing, led by Col. John Roberts, wanted an immediate invasion of Canada, which they believed would pressure the British government to withdraw from Ireland. This approach was exemplified in the 1866 raid on Fort Erie and the Battle of Ridgeway.
The Irish wing, led by James Stephens and the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB), favored a more gradual and secretive approach, focusing on organizing cells and recruiting members within Ireland. They aimed to prepare for an eventual armed uprising, with the American branch providing financial support for weapon purchases and trained officers.
The disagreement between the two wings centered on the timing and tactics of their rebellion. The American wing, driven by a sense of urgency and frustration with the slow progress of the Irish nationalist movement, pushed for a more immediate and direct action against British forces in Canada. In contrast, the Irish wing prioritized building a strong, organized, and well-prepared movement within Ireland, with the ultimate goal of a successful rebellion.
This quarrel highlights the complexities and challenges faced by the Fenian movement, as different factions and leaders pursued their own visions for achieving Irish independence.
What displeased O’Connell about Parliament’s decision to abolish slavery in 1833?
Based on the provided search results, there is no information that suggests Daniel O’Connell, also known as “The Liberator”, was displeased with Parliament’s decision to abolish slavery in 1833. In fact, the search results highlight O’Connell’s commitment to the abolition of slavery and his success in persuading Parliament to vote for the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833. The Act came into effect on August 1, 1834, freeing around 800,000 slaves in the Caribbean, South Africa, and a small number in Canada.
He did not like that people were paid for how much the slaves were each worth.
Why did Cromwell spend three years in Ireland?
Cromwell’s expedition to Ireland in 1649 was primarily aimed at conquering the country and pacifying it after the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The rebellion had brought much of Ireland under the control of the Irish Catholic Confederation, which allied with Royalists against the newly established Commonwealth of England.
Defeating the Confederate Ireland Royalists Cromwell’s forces defeated the Confederate Ireland Royalists, and by the end of 1650, the Confederacy had been defeated. However, sporadic guerrilla warfare continued until 1653.
Establishing English Control and Settlement During his three-year stay, Cromwell aimed to establish English control over Ireland, confiscate Catholic land, and redistribute it to Protestant English settlers. The Act for the Settlement of Ireland 1652 barred Catholics from most public offices and confiscated large amounts of their land, leading to widespread resentment and ethnic cleansing.
Economic and Financial Considerations Additionally, Cromwell’s presence in Ireland was also driven by economic and financial factors. To pay for his army, Parliament passed an Act guaranteeing one-fifth of Ireland’s landmass to those who lent £2 million to the Commonwealth. Cromwell was tasked with making good on these claims, which further solidified his commitment to staying in Ireland for an extended period.
Combining Military, Political, and Economic Objectives In summary, Cromwell spent three years in Ireland (1649-1652) to:
Conquer and pacify the country after the Irish Rebellion.
Defeat the Confederate Ireland Royalists and establish English control.
Confiscate Catholic land and redistribute it to Protestant English settlers.
Fulfill economic and financial obligations to Parliament and the lenders.
These multifaceted objectives required a prolonged presence in Ireland, ultimately lasting three years.
Compare Robert Peel’s response to the Famine to Lord John Russell’s.
Robert Peel’s Conservative government initially responded to the Irish Famine with hesitation and reluctance. Peel’s focus was on maintaining the Corn Laws, which protected British agriculture by restricting Irish grain imports. This led to a delay in providing significant relief to Ireland. Although Peel eventually resigned as Prime Minister in June 1846, his government’s response was characterized by:
Initial reluctance to intervene, citing concerns about the Corn Laws and British agriculture
Limited provision of aid, primarily through the Poor Law system, which was inadequate and ineffective
Lord John Russell, who succeeded Peel as Prime Minister in 1846, faced significant challenges in responding to the Famine. His government’s approach was marked by:
A recognition of the severity of the crisis and the need for more substantial relief efforts
Establishment of the Irish Famine Relief Commission in 1847, which coordinated aid efforts and provided more substantial support to affected areas
Introduction of the Irish Poor Law Extension Act in 1847, which expanded the Poor Law system to provide more comprehensive relief
Peel’s government was more focused on maintaining the Corn Laws, whereas Russell’s government recognized the need for more substantial relief efforts
Russell’s government took more decisive action to address the crisis, establishing the Irish Famine Relief Commission and expanding the Poor Law system
The French tried to aid the Irish rebels in 1796 and 1798. Did they land in Ireland?
According to the search results, the French attempted to aid the Irish rebels in 1796 and 1798. In 1796, a French expeditionary force, led by Jean-Baptiste Humbert, sailed from Brest on December 16 and arrived off the coast of Ireland at Bantry Bay on December 22. However, due to unremitting storms, they were unable to land and had to retreat back to France.
In 1798, another French expedition, led by Lazare Hoche, was planned and assembled at Brest. The force, consisting of 15,000 veteran troops, set sail on December 16, accompanied by Wolfe Tone, a leader of the United Irishmen. However, they were again unable to land due to bad weather, and Tone remarked that “England […] had its luckiest escape since the Armada.”
In neither attempt did the French successfully land troops in Ireland, and their efforts to aid the Irish rebels were ultimately unsuccessful.
Did Hugh O’Neill succeed in his rebellion against Queen Elizabeth I? Explain.
Hugh O’Neill, Earl of Tyrone, led a rebellion against Queen Elizabeth I’s rule in Ireland, known as the Nine Years’ War (1594-1603). While he initially achieved significant successes, ultimately, his rebellion failed to achieve its goals.
Initially, O’Neill’s rebellion was fueled by his desire to defend his territory, Ulster, against English encroachment and to maintain Gaelic culture and traditions. He received support from other Irish clans, including the O’Donnells and Maguires, and from Spain, which provided military aid.
O’Neill’s forces won several battles, including the Battle of Yellow Ford (1598) and the Battle of Kinsale (1601), which were significant defeats for the English. However, despite these victories, O’Neill’s rebellion ultimately failed due to several factors:
Lack of unity: O’Neill’s alliance with other Irish clans was fragile, and internal conflicts and rivalries weakened his position.
English countermeasures: The English government, led by Lord Deputy Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex, and later Lord Mountjoy, responded effectively to O’Neill’s rebellion. They implemented a scorched-earth policy, destroying crops and livestock, and launched counter-attacks against O’Neill’s strongholds.
Spanish aid: Although Spain provided military aid, it was insufficient and inconsistent, and O’Neill’s hopes for a decisive Spanish intervention were ultimately disappointed.
O’Neill’s own mistakes: O’Neill made strategic errors, such as underestimating the strength of the English and overextending his forces.
In 1603, O’Neill was forced to surrender to Lord Mountjoy, and he fled to the Continent, eventually settling in Rome, where he died in 1616. The rebellion marked the end of Gaelic Ulster’s independence and the beginning of English dominance in Ireland.
In summary, while Hugh O’Neill achieved significant military successes during the Nine Years’ War, his rebellion ultimately failed due to internal divisions, effective English countermeasures, inadequate Spanish aid, and his own strategic mistakes.
How does Thomas Gallagher feel about the British government’s response to the Famine?
Gallagher might argue that the British government’s inaction and refusal to intervene effectively exacerbated the suffering and death toll, perpetuating anti-British sentiment and fueling the campaign for Irish independence. The quotes from British officials, such as Thomas Burroughs and others, reveal a callous and dismissive attitude towards the Irish people’s plight, with some even attributing the famine to divine providence or Irish moral shortcomings.
Gallagher might also emphasize the devastating impact of the famine on Irish society, including the widespread poverty, emigration, and loss of life. He might argue that the British government’s response was a deliberate attempt to crush the Irish people’s economic and cultural identity, as evident in the quotes from figures like Daniel O’Connell and John Mitchel, who advocated for an Irish parliament and blamed British policies for the famine.
In summary, Thomas Gallagher, as a writer of the Irish Famine, would likely condemn the British government’s response as inadequate, callous, and even genocidal, highlighting the devastating consequences for the Irish people and the enduring legacy of trauma and resentment.
How does Gallagher feel about the Irish Protestants’ response to the Famine?
If you are looking for a general assessment of the British government’s response to the Famine, the search results suggest that historians have characterized it as inadequate and ineffective in mitigating the devastating effects of the famine. The quotes provided highlight the severity of the crisis, with one historian noting that the famine led to a significant decline in Ireland’s population, and another expressing horror at the callous attitude of some British politicians towards the famine’s human toll.
The priest were not helping whatsoever
How did Archbishop John Hughes assist President Lincoln during the Civil War?
Archbishop John Hughes, a prominent Catholic leader in the United States, played a significant role in assisting President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. In 1862, Lincoln dispatched Hughes on a diplomatic mission to Europe to dissuade European powers from recognizing the Confederacy and providing military aid to the South.
Hughes, as an envoy for the President, successfully convinced the governments of France and Britain not to intervene on behalf of the Confederacy. His efforts helped to maintain the neutrality of these nations, thereby preventing a potentially disastrous escalation of the war.
In addition to his diplomatic mission, Archbishop Hughes also contributed to the Union cause by securing the services of several officers from the Papal Army, who defected to the Union Army. This move helped to bolster the Union’s military strength and further weakened the Confederacy.
President Lincoln expressed his gratitude for Hughes’ efforts, and in 1863, he petitioned Pope Pius IX to elevate Hughes to the rank of Cardinal, a recognition of his significant contributions to the Union cause.
How did Paul Cullen feel about the Fenians? Explain.
Based on the provided information, Paul Cullen, the Archbishop of Dublin, was strongly opposed to the Fenian movement and its principles. He advocated for constitutional action and national unity, rather than rebellion or secret societies. This opposition was deeply rooted in his personal experiences, particularly the 1848 rising in Rome, which shifted him from a liberal stance to a conservative one.
Cullen’s views were likely influenced by the Church’s stance against revolutionary movements and its emphasis on obedience to authority. He was a defender of the rights of tenants, a champion of poorhouse reform, and an advocate for industrial schools, indicating a focus on social and economic issues rather than political rebellion.
In contrast to Bishop Moriarity of Kerry’s infamous statement, “HELL IS NOT HOT ENOUGH NOR ETERNITY LONG ENOUGH” to punish the Fenians, Cullen’s opposition was more nuanced and focused on the perceived dangers of rebellion and secret societies, rather than seeking punishment or retribution. His stance reflects a commitment to peaceful and constitutional means of addressing Ireland’s grievances, rather than resorting to violence or extremism.
How was the Fenian cell structure supposed to work? How effective was it?
The Fenian cell structure, as described in the search results, was a decentralized and hierarchical system. The Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB) in Ireland and its affiliate, the Fenian Brotherhood in the United States, were secret political organizations dedicated to establishing an independent Irish Republic.
Cells: Small, local groups of 3-5 members, often with a specific geographic area or occupation-based focus (e.g., dockworkers, farmers).
Leaders: Cells were led by a “centurion” or “captain,” responsible for coordinating activities and reporting to higher-level leaders.
Hierarchy: Cells reported to “brigades” or “regiments,” which in turn reported to the IRB’s central leadership in Ireland or the Fenian Brotherhood’s leadership in the United States.
Communication: Members used cryptic messages, codes, and messengers to maintain secrecy and avoid detection.
The Fenian cell structure was designed to facilitate rapid mobilization, coordination, and execution of guerrilla warfare and sabotage against British authorities in Ireland. However, its effectiveness was limited by several factors:
Infiltration and betrayal: British intelligence and informants penetrated the organization, leading to the discovery and suppression of many cells.
Lack of widespread support: Not all Irish Catholics supported the Fenian cause, and some saw the invasions of Canada as a threat to emerging Canadian sovereignty.
Inadequate resources: The Fenians lacked sufficient funding, arms, and equipment to sustain a prolonged insurgency.
Poor coordination: Cells often operated independently, leading to confusion and inefficiencies.
British countermeasures: The British responded swiftly and effectively to Fenian activities, using a combination of military force, police surveillance, and propaganda to undermine the movement.
Despite these limitations, the Fenian cell structure played a significant role in Irish nationalist politics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, inspiring later movements and contributing to the eventual establishment of an independent Irish state.
Did O’Connell have more success with Catholic Emancipation or Repeal? Explain.
Daniel O’Connell’s efforts had more significant and enduring success with Catholic Emancipation than with Repeal. Here’s a breakdown of his achievements:
Catholic Emancipation
O’Connell’s campaign, particularly the Catholic Association, mobilized mass support and pressure on the British government.
The Catholic Emancipation Act of 1829 was passed, granting Irish Catholics the right to sit in Parliament and hold public office.
This landmark legislation marked a significant reduction in anti-Catholic discrimination in the UK and Ireland.
Repeal
O’Connell founded the Repeal Association in 1840 to dissolve the Anglo-Irish legislative union and establish an independent Irish parliament.
Despite his efforts, the movement for repeal ultimately failed.
The British government and Irish landowners maintained control, and the union remained intact
While O’Connell’s Repeal Association achieved some local successes, such as the reform of Ireland’s municipal corporations, the broader goal of repealing the Act of Union and establishing an independent Irish parliament remained elusive.
In contrast, Catholic Emancipation had a lasting impact, recognizing the rights of Irish Catholics and paving the way for their increased participation in public life. O’Connell’s success in achieving Catholic Emancipation earned him the nickname “The Liberator” in Ireland.
King Edward VI’s Reformation was quite different from that of Henry VIII. Explain.
King Edward VI’s Reformation, which took place during his reign (1547-1553), differed significantly from that of his father, Henry VIII. While both monarchs initiated religious reforms, their approaches and motivations varied.
Henry VIII’s Reformation was primarily driven by his desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon and secure a male heir. He broke away from the Catholic Church, establishing the Church of England with himself as its supreme head. This move was largely driven by personal and political interests, rather than theological or philosophical concerns.
In contrast, Edward VI’s Reformation was shaped by his upbringing as a Protestant and the influence of Protestant advisors, such as John Calvin and Martin Bucer. Edward’s Reformation focused on purifying the Church of England, eliminating Catholic practices and rituals, and promoting biblical literacy. This shift was more theological and philosophical in nature, driven by a desire to reform the Church from within.
Motivation: Henry VIII’s Reformation was driven by personal and political concerns, whereas Edward VI’s Reformation was motivated by theological and philosophical convictions.
Scope: Henry VIII’s Reformation primarily aimed to establish the Church of England, whereas Edward VI’s Reformation sought to purify and reform the existing Church of England along Protestant lines.
Influence: Henry VIII’s Reformation was characterized by the appointment of Catholic bishops and the retention of many Catholic practices, whereas Edward VI’s Reformation saw the introduction of Protestant clergy and the elimination of many Catholic rituals.
In summary, while both monarchs initiated religious reforms, Henry VIII’s Reformation was driven by personal and political interests, whereas Edward VI’s Reformation was shaped by theological and philosophical convictions, resulting in distinct approaches and outcomes.
What troubled Frederick Douglass about Dublin?
Based on the provided search results, Frederick Douglass, an American abolitionist, experienced several events during his four-month stay in Ireland, particularly in Dublin, that shaped his perspective. Here are the key issues that troubled him:
Initial confrontation: Upon arriving in Dublin, Douglass faced a brawl with a group of Americans on board the ship, who were “under the inspiration of slavery and brandy.” This incident left him shaken and threatened to throw him overboard.
Encounter with a “real American, republican, democratic, Christian mob”: Douglass wrote to William Lloyd Garrison about a confrontation with a group of Americans in Dublin, describing them as a “mob” who opposed his abolitionist views. This experience likely troubled him, as it highlighted the ongoing struggle against slavery and racism in the United States.
Disillusionment with some Irish clergy: Douglass emphasized slavery’s anti-Christian nature and criticized clergy who refused to denounce its practice. This suggests that he was troubled by the silence or complicity of some Irish clergy on the issue of slavery.
Contrast with Irish abolitionists: Douglass was deeply impressed by the Irish abolitionists, particularly Daniel O’Connell, and the strong anti-slavery sentiments he encountered during his travels across Ireland. This contrast with the experiences he had in the United States likely troubled him, as it highlighted the differences in attitudes towards slavery between the two nations.
Met with starving Families and poor citizens begging for help.
These events and encounters in Dublin likely contributed to Douglass’s growing awareness of the global nature of oppression and his commitment to fighting for human rights and equality, as he began to see himself not just as an abolitionist focused solely on American slavery, but as a champion of freedom and justice for all people.
How was “parliament whiskey” different from poteen?
Based on the provided information, here’s a summary of the differences between “parliament whiskey” and poteen:
Regulation: Parliament whiskey, as mentioned in the 1556 regulation, required a license to produce, whereas poteen has historically been considered an illicit moonshine, with no formal regulations or licensing requirement
Aging: EU stipulations dictate that whiskey must be aged for at least three years, whereas poteen cannot be aged for more than 10 weeks. This highlights a significant difference in production processes and resulting flavor profiles.
Flavor profile: While both can be considered “white whiskeys,” poteen is often described as having a harsher, more rustic flavor, whereas parliament whiskey (or whiskey in general) has a more sophisticated flavor profile due to the aging process.
Commercialization: Parliament whiskey, as a regulated spirit, has been commercialized and defined by EU regulations, whereas poteen’s commercialization is more recent and often associated with premium or artisanal producers.
In summary, the key differences lie in regulation, aging requirements, flavor profile, and commercialization. Parliament whiskey is a regulated, aged spirit with a more refined flavor, whereas poteen is an illicit moonshine with a harsher flavor profile and more limited aging.
How did most Irish Americans feel about Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation?
Most Irish Americans were opposed to Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, issued on January 1, 1863. This opposition stemmed from their concerns about competition for low-paying jobs and their allegiance to the Democratic Party, which was pro-slavery and favored by Irish immigrants.
Irish Americans feared that freed African Americans would compete with them for jobs, particularly in the labor market. They believed that the Emancipation Proclamation would lead to an influx of newly freed slaves, who would take away their livelihoods and social status. This economic anxiety contributed to their negative attitude towards the Proclamation.
Irish Americans were largely loyal to the Democratic Party, which had traditionally supported slavery and opposed abolition. The party’s platform and rhetoric resonated with Irish immigrants, who saw themselves as victims of British oppression and identified with the Democratic Party’s anti-abolitionist stance. As a result, many Irish Americans rejected Lincoln’s Republican Party and its commitment to ending slavery.
Although some Irish soldiers fought for the Union, their commitment was largely tied to defending the Constitution and restoring the Union, rather than eradicating slavery. As historian Harold Holzer notes, Irish soldiers were not necessarily abolitionists, and their support for the Union cause did not necessarily translate to enthusiasm for the Emancipation Proclamation.
In summary, most Irish Americans opposed Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation due to their economic concerns and allegiance to the Democratic Party’s pro-slavery stance. While some Irish soldiers fought for the Union, their motivations were primarily patriotic and constitutional, rather than abolitionist.