Synopses & Reviews
W. E. H. Lecky (1838-1903) was one of the most distinguished Victorian historians. He was unusual in the extent to which he made use of archival sources, and noted for his ability of do justice to both sides of an argument. His History of Ireland in the Eighteenth Century was first published as part of A History of England in the Eighteenth Century, but was reissued in 1892 as a five-volume work. He has been described as the first revisionist Irish historian, as the aim of the book was partly to respond to Froude's The English in Ireland in the Eighteenth Century, which is markedly anti-Irish in its sentiments. Lecky was no nationalist, and opposed Home Rule, but wanted to provide a more truthful and balanced narrative, and his account of the United Irishmen and the events of 1798 was highly regarded. Volume 1 covers the period to 1760.
Synopsis
Lecky's History of Ireland in the Eighteenth Century remains an important work, particularly for its use of lost archival sources.
Synopsis
A History of Ireland in the Eighteenth Century was published in this five-volume version in 1892, and aimed at providing a less sectarian history than was currently available. It remains an important source, particularly on the 1790s, as Lecky made use of records which have since been destroyed.
Table of Contents
Part I. Ireland Before the Eighteenth Century: 1. The land war; 2. Religious grievances; 3. Rebellion of 1641; 4. The revolution; Part II. 1700-1760: 1. Laws against Catholics in Ireland; 2. Commercial legislation; 3. Emigration of the more energetic Irishmen; 4. Religious legislation; 5. Social and political effects of the confiscations; 6. Better aspects of Irish life; 7. Description of the country; 8. Irish crime; 9. Conflict between the Anglicans and Dissenters; 10. Conflict between the English and Irish interests.