Left Without a Handkerchief

During the Irish War of Independence and Civil War, 250-300 Irish country houses were burnt, primarily as propaganda by perpetrators. Left without a Handkerchief will provide a new perspective on history, focusing on the experiences of the losers.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: The Lilliput Press Ltd

Left without a Handkerchief is a collection of ten stories that vividly depict the destruction and loss incurred during the Irish War of Independence and Civil War. Between 250 and 300 Irish country houses were burnt during the early 1920s, resulting in significant loss and devastation to the Irish landscape. While the reasons behind these burnings were multifaceted, the perpetrators believed that setting fire to these prominent landmarks would serve as effective propaganda.

Historians have traditionally focused on the actions and motivations of those responsible for carrying out these burnings. However, Left without a Handkerchief aims to present a different perspective by telling the story from the viewpoint of the losers. Through a series of compelling narratives, the book explores the human cost of the conflict, shedding light on the experiences of ordinary people who were caught in the crossfire.

The stories in Left without a Handkerchief range from personal accounts of loss and hardship to broader societal implications. One particularly poignant story tells of a family who lost their home and everything they had, forced to flee to a refugee camp in England. Another highlights the impact of the burnings on the Irish countryside, with descriptions of the charred ruins and the loss of agricultural land and livestock.

The book also delves into the political and social context of the times, examining the factors that led to the outbreak of the war and the subsequent destruction. It explores the role of the British government, the IRA, and other political factions in shaping the course of the conflict. Left without a Handkerchief provides a nuanced and empathetic understanding of the complexities of the Irish War of Independence and Civil War, challenging traditional narratives and offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal period in Irish history.

In conclusion, Left without a Handkerchief is a powerful and thought-provoking book that provides a valuable addition to the literature on the Irish War of Independence and Civil War. By presenting the stories of the losers, the book offers a deeper understanding of the human cost of the conflict and sheds light on the broader societal implications of the events that unfolded. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Irish history and the complexities of conflict resolution.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 159 x 233 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781843518181