Lough Mask’s New Word
Archived: 10 October 2026
In 1880, agricultural failure, falling prices and rent arrears intensified Irish rural distress, prompting relief measures, emigration and debate over tenants’ responsibilities. The general election and Charles Stewart Parnell’s American fundraising strengthened nationalist organisation; his victory over William Shaw established parliamentary leadership. The Lords’ rejection of the limited Compensation for Disturbance Bill deepened distrust of Westminster. Parnell promoted ostracism of those taking evicted farms, exemplified by Captain Boycott’s isolation at Lough Mask, which created the word boycott. Agrarian violence and prosecutions revealed mounting conflict. Meanwhile, the Royal University of Ireland expanded degree access, including for women, linking crisis with change.
