Prosperity, Revolution and Famine
United Irishmen - up to 1798

Legislative independence had been won in 1782 but the Irish Parliament only had Protestant members and even those were effectively nominated by leading men of property. Attempts to reform the Parliament were entirely unsuccessful. The outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789 caused great excitement amongst the educated classes in Ireland.

Inspired by French Revolutionary ideals, a group of Protestants formed the Society of United Irishmen in Belfast in October 1791. The organisation sought an equal representation of all the people (which also meant giving equal political rights to Catholics), and a radical reform of the legislature. The movement became secret and revolutionary in 1795 when Defenders flooded into the organisation determined on revolt, and when Wolfe Tone successfully obtained the promise of French help. A major French expedition sailed from Brest in 1796 but, beset by storms in Bantry Bay in December, no landing was made.

Nevertheless, the sight of French warships caused great excitement and yet more people enrolled in the society. The government seized many of the leaders, hanged and transported Defenders, and raised a militia and yeomanry. Surviving United leaders decided on rebellion to begin on 23rd May, 1798.

Big Mick not the same as going to a country whos leader openly staed he would wipe out every Jew and indesirable in Europe, oh BTW note the Protestant link.