In a captivating exploration of Ireland’s past, Mrs. J. R. Green, acclaimed author of “The Making of Ireland,” delivered an enlightening address at the inauguration of the winter session of the Irish Society of the City and University of Liverpool. Speaking to a captivated audience on Monday evening, Mrs. Green implored attendees to momentarily set aside contemporary considerations and view Ireland’s history as an integral part of the broader European narrative.
Mrs. Green’s historical journey began around 1100 C.E., revealing an Ireland that engaged in extensive trade with both the South and Scandinavia. Positioned strategically along the trading routes, Ireland, despite being outside the Roman Empire’s influence, embraced classical culture and philosophy from Rome. This unique freedom shielded Ireland from the turmoil that befell the Roman dominions. Traders, missionaries, and scholars traversed the seas from Ireland to Europe, fostering a cultural exchange that left an indelible mark.
By the ninth and tenth centuries, Ireland found itself at the heart of European life. Dublin emerged as a pivotal centre for one stream of traffic, while Limerick assumed a central role in another. Professors, scholars, and missionaries from Ireland disseminated its influence across the continent, with continental libraries housing Irish manuscripts. Mrs. Green passionately recounted how, during the 18th century, Ireland boasted a currency mix that included Spanish, Portuguese, and French coins in daily circulation. In the tumultuous era of the Peninsular War, Ireland even supplied foreign coins to the armies of Spain and Portugal, a testament to its global connections.
Transitioning to a more contemporary note, Mrs. Green painted a vivid picture of Ireland’s pivotal role in European affairs during the Peninsular War. The vibrancy of her narrative captured the imagination of the audience, illustrating Ireland’s multifaceted historical contributions that often transcend conventional narratives.
Irish Independent – Thursday 12 October 1911
