The Wearing of the Green, or The Prosecuted Funeral Procession   By: A.M. (Alexander Martin) Sullivan (1830-1884)

In "The Wearing of the Green, or The Prosecuted Funeral Procession," A.M. Sullivan delves into the deeply divisive and tumultuous history of Ireland during the 19th century. With a meticulous attention to detail and an unapologetic political slant, Sullivan presents a fascinating account of the struggles, sufferings, and resilience of the Irish people in their quest for independence.

Sullivan's writing draws readers in from the very beginning, immersing them in a world of political turmoil and societal upheaval. The book is structured in a fluid and logical manner, guiding readers through the various key events and turning points that shaped Irish history during this period. From the Great Famine to the Land War, Sullivan seamlessly weaves together historical facts, personal anecdotes, and political analysis, illuminating the multifaceted nature of Ireland's struggle for self-determination.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Sullivan's ability to humanize historical figures and events. Through his vivid descriptions and insightful analysis, even the most complex political situations become relatable and understandable. Sullivan's portrayal of various Irish leaders, such as Daniel O'Connell and Charles Stuart Parnell, is particularly notable, as he skillfully brings their ideologies and motivations to life, providing readers with a deeper understanding of their contributions to the Irish cause.

Furthermore, Sullivan's exploration of the cultural and symbolic significance of the green flag, the color associated with Irish nationalism, adds a unique dimension to the narrative. He masterfully captures the emotional and transformative power behind this symbol, highlighting its importance in fostering unity and resilience among the Irish people.

However, it is important to recognize that Sullivan's work is unabashedly biased toward the nationalist cause. While this bias undoubtedly adds passion and fervor to the narrative, it occasionally detracts from a more comprehensive analysis of the complexities of the historical period. Additionally, readers unfamiliar with Irish history may find themselves struggling to keep up with the vast array of names, events, and political parties introduced throughout the book, as Sullivan assumes a certain level of prior knowledge.

Overall, "The Wearing of the Green, or The Prosecuted Funeral Procession," is a highly engaging and informative read. Sullivan's dedication to presenting the Irish struggle with unflinching honesty and emotion is evident, making the book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Irish history or the broader themes of nationalism and independence. Despite its biases and occasional density, Sullivan's work offers a compelling account of Ireland's fight for freedom, reminding readers of the importance of remembering and understanding the struggles of the past.

First Page:

In time to come, when the generation now living shall have passed away, men will probably find it difficult to fully realize or understand the state of stupor and amazement which ensued in this country on the first tidings of that event; seeing, as it may be said, that the victims had lain for weeks under sentence of death, to be executed on this date. Yet surprise indubitably was the first and most overpowering emotion; for, in truth, no one up to that hour had really credited that England would take the lives of those three men on a verdict already publicly admitted and proclaimed to have been a blunder... Continue reading book >>