Leaving Cert History IRL ( 1 ) - Ireland and the Union, 1815-1870: How effective were government an

Question

How effective were government and private responses to the Famine?

The Great Famine (1845-1852) in Ireland resulted from a potato disease that caused widespread starvation. The responses to this crisis were multifaceted, involving both government and private efforts.

Government actions included the implementation of the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1838, which established workhouses to provide assistance to the destitute. However, the government's response was often criticized as inadequate and slow, with many in authority believing that market forces would resolve the food shortages. It wasn't until 1847 that the government started to provide aid through measures such as the Public Works Program, but these efforts were often hampered by inefficiencies and red tape.

On the private side, charity organizations, such as the Irish Relief Committee, attempted to provide food and financial assistance. Many local communities mobilized to support their neighbors, highlighting a spirit of solidarity among the Irish people. However, these private efforts alone were insufficient to address the scale of the crisis.

In summary, while both government and private responses were evident during the Famine, their effectiveness was limited by lack of coordination, mismanagement, and insufficient resources. The long-term social and economic impacts were profound and lasting, shaping Ireland's future.

How effective were government and private responses to the Famine? The Great Famine (1845-1852) in Ireland resulted from a potato disease that caused widespread starvation - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2022

Worked Solution & Example Answer:How effective were government and private responses to the Famine? The Great Famine (1845-1852) in Ireland resulted from a potato disease that caused widespread starvation - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2022

Government Responses

Private Responses

Evaluation of Effectiveness

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