Irish Penal Codes

The Penal Laws, designed to suppress the Catholic population, paradoxically fueled nationalist sentiment and left a lasting impact on Irish society. The book progresses systematically, categorizing the laws by their targets—land ownership, religious practice, and education—and then exploring their socio-economic impact, illustrating how they impoverished families and created social stratification.

It further details the repercussions on Irish culture and analyzes the laws’ lasting impact on Irish nationalism and sectarianism. By using original legal documents and contemporary accounts, Irish Penal Codes provides a fresh perspective on discriminatory legislation and its long-term consequences, offering valuable insights into Irish history and the legacy of British rule.