Unconsidered People: The Irish in London - Updated Edition

In the 1950s, half a million Irish men and women left their homeland due to economic stagnation, seeking employment and security in Britain. This forgotten generation, often young and unskilled, experienced varying emigrant experiences, from adventure and excitement to the struggle of adapting to a new life in an alien soil. Their compelling interviews reflect the diversity of lives lived away from home, showcasing the unconsidered people's struggle to plant new lives in an unfamiliar land.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 22 October 2021
Publisher: New Island Books

The London Irish, a diverse and vibrant community, have been the subject of Catherine Dunne's seminal work, which delves into their diverse lives. In a new updated edition, this masterpiece now includes a brand new foreword by Diarmaid Ferriter.

Before the era of low-cost airlines like Ryanair, leaving home was a permanent decision, driven by decades of economic stagnation that forced half a million Irish men and women to seek opportunities elsewhere. For many of these emigrants, primarily young and unskilled, Britain became their lifeline, offering a chance for survival and a better future. Abandoned by their own country, this forgotten generation embarked on a journey in search of employment, security, and the dignity that was denied them in Ireland.

For some of these youthful emigrants, exile held the promise of adventure and excitement, a break from the oppressive conditions under De Valera's Ireland. However, the experiences of these emigrants were far from uniform. Through a series of compelling interviews, the book captures the diverse range of lives lived away from the homeland, shedding light on the unconsidered struggles of a people carving out new lives in unfamiliar lands.

The London Irish community, with its rich heritage and unique experiences, has left an indelible mark on British society. This book serves as a testament to their resilience, determination, and spirit of adaptation, reminding us of the importance of understanding and appreciating the diversity of our communities.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 136 x 214 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848408227