The Irish Potato Famine

Between 1845 and 1852, Ireland suffered an appalling famine after the repeated failure of the potato crop, its national staple. But though caused by a natural blight, a combination of ancient prejudices, simmering tensions and political short-termism turned a national emergency into a disaster for the ages. So why did the authorities in Westminster seem to wash their hands of Ireland during its time of need? How did the Irish people respond to their adversity? And how did this story of betrayal and exploitation shape Ireland’s future, right down to the present day?

This is a Short History of the Irish Potato Famine.

Written by Dan Smith. With thanks to Kristina Kinealy, Director of Ireland's Great Hunger Institute at Quinnipiac University, Connecticut.

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