History of Ireland

"The Famine began quite mysteriously in September 1845 as leaves on potato plants suddenly turned black and curled, then rotted, seemingly the result of a fog that had wafted across the fields of Ireland. The cause was actually an airborne fungus (phytophthora infestans) originally transported in the holds of ships traveling from North America to England.

Winds from southern England carried the fungus to the countryside around Dublin. The blight spread throughout the fields as fungal spores settled on the leaves of healthy potato plants, multiplied and were carried in the millions by cool breezes to surrounding plants. Under ideal moist conditions, a single infected potato plant could infect thousands more in just a few days.

The attacked plants fermented while providing the nourishment the fungus needed to live, emitting a nauseous stench as they blackened and withered in front of the disbelieving eyes of Irish peasants. There had been crop failures in the past due to weather...

"TO ALL FENIANS.
"Vive la Republique!
"The Queen will visit the city in state on Saturday, and on that day she will be shot. She seldom gives a chance. The opportunity won't be lost!
"GOD SAVE IRELAND!"

But the Queen was not shot, though she graced the opening of the Holborn viaduct with her presence.

He says that during Victoria's reign there have died of starvation in Ireland 1,255,000 people; there have been evicted for non-payment of rent, 3,365,000; and there emigrated, 4,185,000.

and after the tenants had been driven from the houses twelve of the buildings were destroyed by the agent.

"Ireland, ir’land, the more western of the two principal islands of which the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland is composed, between lat. 51° 25' and 55° 23' N. and lon.6° 20' and 10° 20' W. It has the Atlantic on all sides except the E., where it is separated from Great Britain by St. George's Channel, the Irish Sea, and the North Channel. Length, from Fair Head to Mizzen Head, about 300 miles; greatest breadth, 170 miles. Area, including the adjacent islands, 32,393 square miles. Pop. in 1871, 5,412,377; in 1881, 5,174,836; in 1891, 4,706,162..."

George V becomes the Free State's monarch. Tim Healy is appointed first Governor-General of the Irish Free State and W. T. Cosgrave becomes President of the Executive Council.

1. Dublin: Ireland's capital city is a must-visit. Explore Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, visit the Guinness Storehouse, and take a stroll through Temple Bar for a taste of Dublin's nightlife.

2. Cliffs of Moher: These iconic cliffs on the western coast provide some of the most breathtaking views in Ireland. Don't forget your camera!

3. Ring of Kerry: This scenic drive takes you through some of Ireland's most picturesque landscapes. Be sure to stop in the towns of Killarney, Kenmare, and Cahersiveen along the way.

4. Giant's Causeway: Located in Northern Ireland, this natural wonder features thousands of hexagonal basalt columns. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great spot for geology enthusiasts.

5. Blarney Castle: Visit this historic castle in County Cork and kiss the Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence. The beautiful gardens surrounding the castle are worth exploring as well.

6. Killarney National Park: This park is home to lakes, forests, and...