The last few decades of the 19th century and the first few of the 20th were periods of major change and disruption in Ireland. The deaths and diaspora that came about due to the Great Hunger were followed by the agrarian unrest and evictions of the Land War and an ever-intensifying campaign for Irish Home Rule. Much of this was captured on glass plates, as photographic technology increased and propagated around the country.
The following wonderful images from the National Library of Ireland capture an expansive portrait of the people of Ireland leading up to its secession from the United Kingdom, from the wealthy landlords, and urban professionals to the farmers and fishermen who harvested the isle's bounty.
Source: mashable
Photos: National Library of Ireland
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