Week 2, Lecture 8 - Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen

Summary

Theobald Wolfe Tone, born in Dublin in 1763, is celebrated as the father of modern Irish republicanism. Inspired by the American and French Revolutions, he formed the United Irishmen in 1791 to unite Catholics and Protestants against British rule. His influential writings, particularly *An Argument on Behalf of the Catholics in Ireland*, championed Irish independence and challenged societal divisions. Tone's vision extended to securing French military support for an uprising in Ireland, culminating in a planned invasion in December 1796. His radical ideas and charismatic leadership laid the groundwork for future Irish revolutionary movements.

Takeaways

• 😀 Wolfe Tone is regarded as the father of modern Irish republicanism and a key figure in the Revolutionary tradition of the 18th century.
• 📜 Tone's writings, particularly 'An Argument on Behalf of the Catholics in Ireland' (1791), were influential in promoting Irish independence and unity among Catholics and Protestants.
• 🌍 Inspired by the American and French Revolutions, Tone sought to channel revolutionary ideas into practical actions for Irish independence.
• 👨‍🎓 Despite a troubled academic career at Trinity College Dublin, Tone became a charismatic leader, involved in the vibrant social life of the institution.
• ❤️ Tone's romantic life was marked by unrequited love for Eliza Martin, leading him to vow never to miss an opportunity again.
• 👫 He eloped with Martha Witherington, convincing her to change her name to Matilda, reflecting his persuasive nature.
• 🏴‍☠️ Tone founded the United Irishmen, a group initially aimed at discussing radical ideas, which evolved into an illegal organization plotting for Irish separation from Britain.
• ⚔️ He became increasingly radicalized through his friendships and the political climate, leading to his efforts to unite the Irish people against British rule.
• 🇫🇷 Tone sought French military support for an invasion of Ireland, believing it would facilitate a successful uprising against British governance.
• ❄️ The planned French invasion in December 1796 represented a bold gamble, aiming to exploit British vulnerabilities during the winter months to achieve Irish independence.

Q & A

Who is considered the father of modern Irish republicanism?

Theobald Wolfe Tone, a Trinity graduate, is seen as the father of modern Irish republicanism.

What was Wolfe Tone's contribution to the ideas of Irish independence?

Wolfe Tone popularized ideas about why Ireland should be an independent country and advocated for unity among Catholics and Protestants.

What publication did Wolfe Tone write that became popular in the 1790s?

Wolfe Tone wrote 'An Argument on Behalf of the Catholics in Ireland,' which became a bestseller in the 1790s.

How did Wolfe Tone view the divisions between different religious groups in Ireland?

Wolfe Tone believed in substituting the names of Catholic, Protestant, and Dissenter for the common name of Irishman, promoting unity over division.

What was Wolfe Tone's initial stance on military service during the American Revolution?

In 1781, Wolfe Tone wanted to join the British Army to fight against the American colonists, but his mother did not allow him to do so.

What kind of lifestyle did Wolfe Tone lead during his time at Trinity College?

Wolfe Tone was known for his carefree lifestyle, often skipping classes and engaging in social activities rather than focusing on his studies.

What major event did Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen aim to achieve in the 1790s?

Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen aimed to create an Irish Republic, separate from British rule.

What was the fate of the United Irishmen as they became more radical?

As the United Irishmen became more radical, the organization was declared illegal, and joining it became a crime punishable by death.

Why did Wolfe Tone travel to America, and what was his impression of it?

Wolfe Tone traveled to America seeking refuge and opportunity but ended up disliking it, feeling swindled and expressing disdain for Americans.

What was Wolfe Tone's role in persuading the French to invade Ireland?

Wolfe Tone worked on plans for a French invasion of Ireland, convincing French ministers that Irish Catholics would rise up in support of the invasion.