The Politics of Irish Social Policy, 1600-1900

This study challenges traditional notions of the formation of Irish social policy which cast the process in terms of a progression from barbarism to enlightenment. It identifies and uses working-class sources where they are available, as well as the views of the ruling elite. The first three chapters deal with the colonial period from 1600-1922. The last four chapters address social policy in post-Independence Ireland, including the welfare system as experienced by the poor, right up to 1990.