Black '47 and Beyond: The Great Irish Famine in History, Economy, and Memory

Cormac Ó Gráda delves into one of history's most devastating crises, the Great Irish Famine, exploring its far-reaching impacts on Ireland's economy and collective memory. With an expert grasp of economic history, he charts the intricate web of factors that led to the famine, examining everything from agricultural practices to governmental responses. He reveals how the blight of the potato crop was not merely an agricultural disaster, but a catastrophe steeped in human decisions and societal structures.

Ó Gráda sheds light on the economic ramifications that rippled through the nation and beyond, analyzing how the famine reshaped Ireland's demographic landscape and its long-term economic development. He presents a robust investigation into the memory of the famine, illustrating how it continues to influence Irish identity and cultural expressions.

The narrative weaves together statistics, personal accounts, and historical context, making the events accessible to both scholars and general readers. Throughout, Ó Gráda emphasizes the importance of understanding the past to grasp the current socio-economic climate of Ireland, inviting readers to consider the lasting legacies of such a profound event.