Under the auspices of the National Literary Society, a captivating lecture titled “The Trade Routes of Ireland” was delivered by Mrs. Green in the Large Hall at 6 Stephens’ Green last evening. Dr Douglas Hyde presided over the event, acknowledging Mrs. Green’s prominence as a lecturer and attributing considerable credit to her.
In her insightful lecture, Mrs. Green urged the audience to momentarily set aside the contemporary situation in Ireland and delve into its history as an integral part of Europe. Stressing that Ireland has a rich history deeply interwoven with European civilization, she encouraged the audience to consider Ireland’s trade routes from a broader perspective.
Mrs. Green commenced by contemplating the geographical factors that shaped Ireland’s trade routes, differentiating it from England. While the English were historically oriented towards the North and East of Europe, Ireland, with its natural harbours opening to the Atlantic Ocean, was inclined towards the South and West. This geographical divergence, she argued, played a significant role in shaping the unique trade relationships of Ireland.
Delving into history, Mrs. Green emphasized that Ireland’s civilization did not solely depend on England. Even during the Roman Empire, Ireland remained outside its dominion, and the influence of Roman armies did not extend across the Irish Sea. She highlighted the positive impact of human interaction over forceful subjection, citing examples of how Irish missionaries brought new arts and sciences to Ireland, fostering a rich cultural heritage.
As Mrs. Green navigated through the centuries, she touched upon the periods of Scandinavian dominance and their impact on Irish trade. The seizing of Irish harbours by Scandinavian freebooters temporarily disrupted Ireland’s commerce with Gaul, but this period of disturbance was relatively short-lived.
The lecture further explored Ireland’s pivotal role in European traffic during the ninth and tenth centuries. Mrs. Green painted a vivid picture of Ireland as a centre of trade and knowledge, where commerce thrived, and scholars from across Europe sought fame. She underscored Ireland’s resilience, maintaining independence for about 150 years even as the Danes and Norsemen contemplated their imperial destinies.
Mrs. Green concluded by examining the shifts in trade dynamics over the centuries, acknowledging the significant role played by the Normans, and the subsequent impact of political geography on Ireland’s trade routes. She posed a thought-provoking perspective, suggesting that Ireland, united and loyal, could reclaim its position as a master of the ocean and revive its old harbours for new commerce.
The lecture received accolades from the audience, and a vote of thanks was extended to Mrs. Green by Father O’Neill and seconded by Professor T. M. Kettle, MP.. The vibrant discussions that followed reflected the engagement and appreciation of the attendees. The event was an enlightening exploration of Ireland’s trade history.
As the evening concluded, Mrs. Green’s lecture left an indelible impression, prompting reflection on Ireland’s historical connection with European trade routes and inspiring thoughts on the potential for future economic resurgence through maritime endeavours.
Dublin Daily Express – Tuesday 22 March 1910
