This lecture examines the shifting political relationship between Britain’s American colonies and the Kingdom of Ireland during the decades surrounding the American Revolution and the Irish Rebellion of 1798. In the mid eighteenth century, the Irish Protestant Ascendancy and the British American colonies viewed each other as fellow victims of poor imperial policy and often sought to make common cause with one another to push for imperial reforms. Dr Taylor explores the evolution of that transatlantic relationship over the course of the American Revolution from fellow sufferers in the 1760s, to potential compatriots in the 1770s, to outright enemies by the 1780s, and the complicated and contradictory legacies it had for the Irish Rebellion of 1798.

To be held in-person at the Mansion at Shirley Place. Refreshments to follow. Please register on Eventbrite using the link below.

About our presenter:

Dr. Trent Taylor is a historian of the eighteenth century Atlantic British Empire, the American Revolution, and the early US republic. He studied history at the University of Virginia and received his master’s degree and PhD in US History from the University of Oxford in Great Britain.

Cover art: Unknown Artist, The Dublin Volunteers on College Green, 4th November, commemorating the birthday of King William III, (1650-1702), 1784, line and aquatint. The National Gallery of Ireland.