Great Hunger

Learn about one of the worst disasters in Irish history, second only to the Black Death pandemic in death toll estimates - the Great Famine. Also referred to as "The Great Hunger", the Famine, which was caused by a potato blight, lasted between 1845 and 1849, decimating Ireland's population and resulting in emigration on an unprecedented scale.

Culture

IrishCentral’s Book of the Month: “The Hungry Road” by Marita Conlon-McKenna

For October, join IrishCentral's Book Club as we read “The Hungry Road” by award-winning Irish author Marita Conlon-McKenna.

History

Irish population was in serious decline before the Vikings arrived

It has long been assumed that the population of Ireland grew steadily until it was devastated by the Great Famine but now we know why.

Roots

Famine museum launches new 27-stage "National Famine Way"

The National Famine Museum has also launched special passports that enable holders to check off landmarks they have visited.

Roots

WATCH: AOH marks 175th anniversary of first report of Ireland’s potato blight

The Ancient Order of Hibernians has shared a stirring video to mark the anniversary of the 1845 report that became the precursor to The Great Famine.

Niall O'Dowd

Joe Biden would be the fourth US President descended from Irish Famine migrants

Joe Biden could join the likes of Presidents Obama, Reagan, and Kennedy as heading into the Oval Office as a descendant of Irish Famine migrants.

Other Writers

A history of the Great Hunger ballad "Skibbereen"

A brief look at the history behind one of Ireland's most haunting ballads that emerged from the Great Famine.

History

St. James’s Hospital Dublin's history as a workhouse for destitute beggars

At the end of the 17th century, the Dublin City Assembly decided to build a workhouse on James’s Street, outside the city’s western gate where destitute beggars from the west of Ireland entered the city.

History