I believe this to be a truly remarkable ballad which, along with songs like Skibbereen, reflect a return to the spirit of rebelliousness following the degradation and horror of the Famine, evictions and forced emigrations.
They are an indication of a determination to obtain independence;

What origin do you have for Skibbereen Jim?
Is it pre 20C ?

That last sentence is a big leap in the dark, I think.