In a momentous turn of events, reminiscent of Ireland’s storied past, young men across the nation find themselves presented with a unique opportunity – the revival of national regiments, a practice last witnessed in 1781. This revival marks a significant chapter in the history of Irish nationalism, echoing the spirit of past endeavours when the call of Tyrconnell saw 50,000 men rally to the cause in a matter of months.
Centuries ago, national regiments emerged across nearly every county in Ireland, a testament to the fervor that pulsated through the hearts of its people. One cannot discuss such historical pursuits without delving into the echoes of Grattan’s volunteers and Tyrconnell’s “blackguards.” While Grattan’s volunteers enjoyed favorable conditions – well-clothed, well-fed, and well-armed – the “blackguards” faced adversity. Derisively labeled by their foes, the Williamites, as such, they were often ill-armed, ill-fed, and ill-clothed. Some were reduced to donning makeshift headgear fashioned from wisps of hay straw.
Yet, despite their seemingly disadvantaged state, these “blackguards” played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of Connacht. Their resilience was evident as they repelled the forces of Orange from the battered walls of Limerick. This historic feat later laid the groundwork for Irish regiments that went on to distinguish themselves on the battlefields of Landen and Cremona, etching the name of Irish soldiers in the annals of continental glory.
The resonance of Limerick in these historical events is undeniable. The broken walls of the city bore witness to the ebb and flow of conflict, and the valiant stand made by Tyrconnell’s forces left an indelible mark on Ireland’s fight for self-determination. It is this historical backdrop that lends a profound significance to the term “Limerick” in the context of national regiments.
As we stand on the precipice of a new era where the youth of Ireland can once again form regiments of volunteers, it is essential to draw parallels with the past. The call to drill and train in the manual of the soldier echoes the aspirations of those who came before, paving the way for a new generation to embrace the mantle of responsibility.
The imagery of ragged and barefoot soldiers, bound by a common cause, resonates through the ages. The challenges faced by Tyrconnell’s “blackguards” mirror the struggles of their modern counterparts as they embark on this journey. The historical legacy of Limerick, with its broken walls and resolute defenders, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for the cause of Irish freedom.
In the absence of subheadings, datelines, or bylines, the narrative seamlessly weaves together the threads of history, drawing a vivid picture of Ireland’s tumultuous past. The focus remains steadfast on factual details, eschewing opinions or superfluous comments. The impartial tone serves to highlight the significance of the moment without veering into subjective territory.
As the young Nationalist men of Ireland take up the mantle, they step into a legacy shaped by the “blackguards” of Tyrconnell’s time. The broken walls of Limerick, once witness to fierce battles, now stand as a symbol of resilience and determination. The revival of national regiments, with its roots in the pages of history, heralds a new chapter for Ireland, where the echoes of the past reverberate through the actions of the present.
Echoes of Owen Roe’s Men: A Glimpse into Ireland’s Military History
Long before Tyrconnell rallied Irishmen to form national regiments, another formidable figure emerged on the Irish landscape – a soldier and leader of unmatched caliber. Owen Roe, a man surpassing even Tyrconnell in both military prowess and character, called upon the men of Connacht, Ulster, and the Midlands to take up arms. His camp in Cavan became the crucible where, in a mere seven weeks, he transformed volunteers into “good, hopeful men.” The legacy of Owen Roe’s men would leave an indelible mark on Irish history.
The pages of history recount their valour at the Battle of Benburb, where pikes and muskets clashed, and a final charge of horse sealed their triumph. Owen Roe’s men stand as a testament to the earliest incarnation of national volunteers, a precursor to the later regiments that would shape the course of Ireland’s destiny. In the footsteps of these men, Ireland witnessed a military tradition that dated back to the sixteenth century.
Before the seventeenth century, Irishmen were accustomed to bearing arms, and trained bands were a common sight in each province. The soldiers of that era were no mere mercenaries; they were known as “Amuis,” committed to non-restrictive service, free to change allegiances when their contracts expired. Clansmen, on the other hand, formed militias, obligated to take the field at their chief’s command as part of their allegiance.
However, the winds of change swept across Ireland at the end of the nine years’ war, a war of independence that came tantalizingly close to fruition. With the death of Red Hugh and the Flight of the Earls, the systematic disarming of Irishmen commenced. A significant shift occurred in the military landscape, marking the end of an era characterized by armed Irishmen freely plying their trade.
Delving into the intricate tapestry of sixteenth-century Irish soldiers reveals a diverse array of regiments or companies. The cavalry, clad in steel headpieces and mail jackets, brandished swords, skians, and spears, their distinctive charge style setting them apart from their English counterparts. Heavy-armed soldiers, the galloglachs, comprised a force of great strength and height, wielding formidable battleaxes and displaying an unwavering commitment to the fight.
The third type of soldier, the ceithern or kerne, armed with swords, bows, and arrows or iron darts, carried a shield into battle. As the century progressed, muskets replaced bows and darts, marking a technological shift in Irish military strategy. Horse boys, often considered the scum of the country by some accounts, formed a separate company, their role indispensable in camp activities and horse care, yet formidable adversaries with their darts on the battlefield.
Owen Roe’s men and their predecessors embody a rich military tradition, each chapter of their history etched into the collective memory of Ireland. As the nation contemplates the resurgence of national regiments, it is impossible to ignore the echoes of the past – the battles won, the sacrifices made, and the unyielding spirit that defines Irish soldiers throughout the ages. In the absence of subheadings, datelines, or bylines, the narrative unfolds seamlessly, offering a factual and impartial exploration of Ireland’s military history, with a focus on the intricacies linked to Limerick and beyond.
Irish Soldiers in 1521: A Glimpse Through Albert Durer’s Lens
In the vivid tapestry of European history, a captivating snapshot emerges from the year 1521, frozen in time by the skilled hand of renowned artist Albert Durer. The focal point of this historical tableau is a depiction of two Irish soldiers, their presence already well-known on the Continent, where many sought fortune and fame through their martial prowess. The accompanying inscription in German leaves no room for ambiguity: “Here go the war-men of Ireland beyond England.”
The artistic rendering captures the essence of these Irish warriors, each figure meticulously detailed in their attire and weaponry. One soldier shoulders a formidable two-handed sword, a symbol of both strength and skill. Across his arm, a sheaf of arrows is carefully secured, while his left hand confidently holds a bow. His attire is a testament to the defensive measures of the time – a helmet, a knee-length coat of mail, and a flowing cloak. The visual narrative seamlessly conveys the distinct martial identity of these Irish soldiers.
Beside him stands a companion, armed with a spear and donned in a unique war-tunic indigenous to Ireland. This garment, unlike any war-dress found elsewhere in Europe, is described as a long saffron-colored and quilted attire – a striking departure from the norms seen in other countries. It is this peculiar garment that sets Irish soldiers apart, much like the kilts of the Scottish Highlanders, but distinct in its own right.
The helmets worn by these soldiers are not mere functional accessories; one of them features a distinctive shape with a guard specifically designed to protect the nose. Such attention to detail speaks to the craftsmanship of Irish armorers of the time, whose creations bore several unique details and shapes compared to those fashioned in other European countries.
The aura of the two tall figures is noteworthy, exuding an unmistakable air of confidence and stature. This artistic portrayal transcends mere aesthetics, providing a glimpse into the demeanor and demeanor of Irish soldiers in a foreign land. Their weapons and armor, crafted by skilled Irish hands, carry nuances and shapes distinct from the mainstream European production, showcasing the diversity and individuality inherent in Ireland’s martial traditions.
As we delve into the visual narrative woven by Albert Durer, the image serves as a historical testament to the presence and influence of Irish soldiers beyond their homeland. The inscription’s bold declaration, “Here go the war-men of Ireland beyond England,” reinforces the reputation of these warriors as formidable and sought-after participants in the conflicts of the time.
Evolution of Irish Soldiers’ Attire in the 17th Century and Beyond
As the 17th century unfolded, the visual identity of Irish soldiers underwent significant transformations, mirroring the broader shifts in military attire both in England and on the Continent. The initial decades of the century saw soldiers, both in Ireland and beyond, clad more or less in armor, providing comprehensive protection. However, as the century progressed, a notable departure from complete armor occurred.
By the century’s end, the full suite of armor, including helmets, breastplates, and backplates or cuirasses, had largely fallen out of favor. Irish soldiers, like their counterparts elsewhere, adapted to this change, discarding the heavier armor in favor of more streamlined protection. This evolution marked a departure from the earlier years when Irishmen, particularly the galloglachs, had been accustomed to donning steel headpieces and mail jackets.
The transition was evident in the ranks of Owen Roe’s men, who, during the latter years of the 17th century, found themselves without the traditional steel headpieces and mail jackets that had characterized the galloglachs. Instead, the soldiers relied on more lightweight defences, such as garments made of serge and frieze, providing a pragmatic compromise between protection and mobility.
Tyrconnell’s cavalry, during the same period, maintained a level of sophistication in their equipment and armament, showcasing a commitment to effective cavalry tactics. The infantry, however, faced a different reality. As previously noted, they were often ill-provided, lacking the resources to equip themselves adequately.
Later in the century, a notable shift occurred as some regiments began to receive uniforms. This marked a departure from the disparate attire worn by individual soldiers. Uniforms not only standardized the appearance of the troops but also played a crucial role in fostering a sense of cohesion and identity within the military ranks.
The soldiers of King James, particularly those in Tyrconnell’s army, found themselves in a unique position. While the cavalry remained well-mounted, equipped, and armed, the infantry continued to face challenges in terms of provisions. However, as the political landscape shifted, and soldiers aligned themselves with King James, efforts were made to outfit regiments with uniforms.
The emergence of the Irish Brigade further exemplified this trend. Under the command of Lazun, four regiments were brought to Ireland, each distinguished by the color of their uniforms. Red became a prominent hue among the Irish Brigade, with regiments donning scarlet coats. The specifics of the uniforms, such as facings, turnbacks, and epaulets, varied among regiments, adding a touch of individuality and style.
This era witnessed a broader shift in military fashion, with gorgeous uniforms becoming en vogue. Distinctive colors and styles became synonymous with different regiments, reflecting not only a practical consideration for identification on the battlefield but also a growing emphasis on the aesthetics of military attire.
Nurturing Ireland’s Martial Tradition: A Call to Racial Pride
The young men of Ireland stand on the precipice of a future intertwined with a profound martial tradition, a legacy that echoes through the corridors of time. This heritage, stretching from the dawn of Irish history to the gallant soldiers of the Red Branch, the formidable armies led by Brian Boru, the disciplined companies of the sixteenth century, to Owen Roe’s indomitable “hearts of gold” and the valiant forces commanded by Patrick Sarsfield, showcases the Gael’s enduring prowess as among the world’s finest soldiers.
As we reflect on this rich tapestry of martial achievements, it becomes a clarion call to stir the manhood of the land and kindle the flame of racial pride. The annals of Irish history resonate with tales of bravery, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the defence of the homeland. The Gael, through the ages, has etched a legacy that is not only formidable but emblematic of a warrior spirit that transcends time.
From the ancient tales of the Red Branch warriors to the strategic brilliance of Brian Boru, the High King who united Ireland against external threats, the Gael has stood firm in the face of adversity. The trained companies of the sixteenth century, with their distinctive regiments and tactics, further solidified the reputation of Irish soldiers on both national and international fronts.
Owen Roe’s “hearts of gold” represent a poignant chapter in Ireland’s military saga, showcasing the resilience and determination that have come to define the Gaelic spirit. Patrick Sarsfield’s army, with its unwavering loyalty and sacrifice, left an indelible mark on the pages of Irish history, especially in the context of the Siege of Limerick.
The martial blood that has coursed through the veins of Ireland’s sons for centuries continues to flow in the young men of today. It is a force that, if harnessed and cultivated, can serve as the catalyst for a new chapter in Ireland’s martial tradition. The question arises – if the North can boast volunteers, why not the South, the Midlands, and the West?
This call to action is not merely a historical reflection but an acknowledgment that the martial spirit still resides within the youth of Ireland. The North’s volunteers are a testament to the enduring commitment to defend and serve. Now, it is time for the South, the Midlands, and the West to answer this call and contribute to the storied legacy of Irish soldiers.
Dublin Leader – Saturday 29 November 1913
