The Story of the Irish Race: A Popular History of Ireland

Seamus MacManus' The Story of the Irish Race is a classic history of the Irish people from their prehistoric origins to their fight for independence in twentieth century. It provides fascinating insight into the origins of their culture, religion, laws, arts, antiquities, folklore, trade, literature, heroes, and more. MacManus sketches brilliant overviews of a number of the most famous figures from the country's past, some of whom, like St. Patrick, allowed the Irish to flourish, whilst others, like Oliver Cromwell, persecuted them. But MacManus also uncovers some of the less well known men and women of Irish history, such as the legendary Conor MacNessa and the revolutionary Theobald Wolfe Tone, all of whom were instrumental in shaping that nation. From the Viking invasions to the Easter Rising to the Irish Famine, all of the major events of Irish history are covered in compelling detail. The Journal of Modern History stated that this book would "appeal to many patriotic Irish readers". Drawing upon the rich cultural heritage of Ireland, Macmanus creates an extremely readable and enlightening account of this nation's history. Seamus MacManus was an Irish author, dramatist, and poet known for his ability to reinterpret Irish folktales for modern audiences. He was considered by many to be the last great seanchaí (storyteller of the ancient oral tradition) . The Story of the Irish Race is perhaps his greatest work and was first published in 1921. He died in 1960.