The Presidents’ Letters: An Unexpected History of Ireland

Discover a hidden side of Irish history with "The Presidents' Letters: An Unexpected History of Ireland," a captivating collection offering an intimate glimpse into the nation's past through the personal correspondence of its nine presidents. This meticulously curated hardcover, published by New Island Books in 2021, presents over 400 letters, memos, cards, telegrams, drawings, notes, and photographs, many of which have never been published before, offering a fresh perspective on the evolution of Ireland from 1938 to the present day. Imagine holding in your hands a handwritten note from a president to a queen, a message sent to the moon, or a heartfelt farewell from a renowned poet. "The Presidents' Letters" grants you access to these moments, revealing the humanity behind the office and the complex relationships that shaped the nation. You'll find letters of congratulations, profound resignations, and heartfelt sympathies, letters of joy and unimaginable loss, desperate pleas, and even threatening missives, originating from the grand halls of palaces and parliaments to the stark realities of prisons, war zones, refugee camps, and homeless shelters. More than just a collection of historical documents, this book is a testament to the enduring power of the written word. It beautifully illustrates how each president navigated the challenges and opportunities of their respective eras, forging and nurturing the bond between Ireland and its global diaspora. Explore the evolving dynamics of Irish society, the key political turning points, and the cultural shifts that defined each presidential term, all through the unfiltered voices of those at the helm. "The Presidents' Letters" takes a unique approach, organizing its content thematically rather than chronologically by president. This allows for a deeper exploration of specific issues and recurring themes in Irish history. Enhanced by insightful introductions to each thematic section, written by prominent Irish figures, including David McCullagh, Rory Montgomery, Martina Devlin, Catriona Crowe, Samantha Barry, Joseph OConnor, Harry McGee, Lise Hand, Justine McCarthy, Paul Rouse, and Terri Kearney. These contributions provide valuable context and analysis, enriching your understanding of the letters and their significance. This book is perfect for history enthusiasts, students of Irish politics, those interested in social sciences, or anyone seeking a unique and compelling narrative of Ireland's journey. Dive into this treasure trove of personal correspondence and uncover an unexpected history of Ireland, one letter at a time. With 304 pages of fascinating insights, "The Presidents' Letters" offers a reading experience that is both informative and deeply moving. Its a beautifully produced volume that is sure to be a treasured addition to any library, offering a unique and insightful perspective on the leaders who have shaped Ireland. Its weight of 888 grams speaks to the quality and care that has been put into this very special project, shortlisted for the An Post Irish Book Awards Irish-Published Book of the Year. The ISBNs are ISBN-10: 1848407696 and ISBN-13: 9781848407695.