The Great Hunger by Cecil Woodham-Smith | Summary

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""The Great Hunger"" by Cecil Woodham-Smith is a historical account of the Irish Potato Famine that occurred in the mid-19th century. Woodham-Smith's work provides a comprehensive and detailed examination of the causes, progression, and devastating impact of the famine on Ireland.

The book begins by setting the historical context, discussing the social, economic, and political conditions in Ireland leading up to the famine. Woodham-Smith explores the heavy reliance on potatoes as a staple crop, the prevalence of land tenure systems, and the impact of British policies on Irish agriculture.

Woodham-Smith then delves into the outbreak of the potato blight, a fungal disease that caused the widespread failure of the potato crop, upon which the majority of the Irish population depended for sustenance. The book describes the rapid spread of the blight and its devastating effects on the Irish people, leading to widespread starvation, disease, and mass emigration.

Throughout the book, Woodham-Smith provides detailed accounts of the experiences of individuals affected by the famine. She highlights the plight of tenant farmers, laborers, and the poorest members of Irish society who were the most severely impacted by the lack of food and resources. The book also discusses the response of various actors, including British authorities, landlords, charitable organizations, and the Irish population themselves, to the crisis.

Woodham-Smith explores the failures and shortcomings of relief efforts, highlighting the inadequate response of the British government and the limited effectiveness of relief measures implemented during the famine. She discusses issues such as the export of food from Ireland, the role of workhouses, and the controversy surrounding the policy of ""assisted emigration.""

""The Great Hunger"" is praised for its meticulous research, attention to detail, and engaging narrative style. Woodham-Smith's work brought renewed attention to the Irish Potato Famine and its lasting impact on Irish history and identity.

However, it's important to note that the book has received some criticism for its portrayal of the British response to the famine and the actions of various individuals and institutions. Some scholars argue that Woodham-Smith may oversimplify certain aspects of the famine and place excessive blame on specific actors.

In summary, ""The Great Hunger"" by Cecil Woodham-Smith provides a comprehensive account of the Irish Potato Famine, exploring its causes, progression, and impact on Irish society. The book offers detailed insights into the experiences of individuals affected by the famine and examines the responses of various actors. While it is highly regarded for its research and narrative, it is not without its critics who question certain aspects of its analysis."