Leitrim

The Irish revolution, 1912-23

Patrick McGarty

“it is the book’s local focus that ultimately enables Leitrim: The Irish Revolution to provide insight into key features of this period in Irish history more generally ... In the book, we also learn that Leitrim, though viewed as a relatively insignificant county in studies focused on the War of Independence’s military campaign, was subjected to considerable state violence during this war. This again is very revealing. In McGarty’s analysis, this state violence was a response to the county’s effective strategies of civil disobedience ... In its detailed account of an Irish county that would be considered marginal in any mainstream state or nation focused history of the period 1912 to 1923, Leitrim: The Irish Revolution contributes to that narrative.” Heather Laird, Irish Literary Supplement, Spring 2021

"This book is a gripping masterpiece that will enthral each and every reader that has an interest in our county, the people who live here and our shared history ... it is a marvellous volume containing a fast paced account of events in Leitrim at a seminal time in Ireland's history. It looks at their place in the wider history of Ireland and further afield ... You will also find a thorough set of reference notes to back up the book's narrative; some wonderful photographs from the period; and quite a few helpful maps ... Despite the inescapable focus on death an destruction, this book also portrays the humanity and good humour that revealed itself even in the most hardened of warriors ... Dr McGarty's book is a masterful review and commentary on Leitrim's role in the history of Ireland in the revolutionary period ... It lightens the narrative by introducing lovely touches of humour that will tickle you to the point of laughter. This book will handsomely repay careful study by all those who have a genuine interest in our county and our country. It would make a fine Christmas gift to anyone with connections to Leitrim, whether at home or abroad, and would also be appreciated by all those who value the story of how how our nation emerged from subjection in the tumultuous decade from 1912 to 1923." Leitrim Observer (30 September 2020)

“Patrick McGarty’s extensive research in a very wide variety of primary resources and an impressive list of secondary sources, published works and unpublished theses, has produced a unique resource for the study of Leitrim during this period … McGarty’s account of the revolutionary period in Leitrim is essential reading for all those with an interest in the history of the county. His copious notes and very extensive bibliography is a resource within itself, however, the lasting contribution of this work is as a “gateway” with illumination into the fascinating of this not so “quiet” county. An excellent resource, extremely well researched and presented”. Ireland’s Genealogical Gazette (October 2020)