Improvement and nationhood

Essays in Irish history, c.1730–c.1850 presented to James Kelly

David Hayton and Ciarán Mac Murchaidh

This collection of essays explores various aspects of Irish life from the beginning of the eighteenth century until the Great Famine, reflecting the interests and scholarly achievements of Professor James Kelly, one of the foremost historians of the period. The contributions cover a broad range of subjects but are united in their concern with the effects of political and social change on the mental landscape of Irish men and women in an era defined by economic improvement and developing senses of nationhood. 

David Hayton, MRIA is emeritus professor of early modern Irish and British history, QUB. Ciarán Mac Murchaidh is professor of Irish at DCU.