Daniel O'Connell: Nationalism without Violence

Values and Identities in Ireland's Peace Policy: Four Centuries of Norm Continuity and Change

“…O'Connell was opportunistic, realistic and flexible (O'Ferrall : 82) and because of this at times his bargaining positions did not reflect his political ideals. Although he briefly flirted with the federal idea (Moley : 163, 224) and never advocated separation from the Crown (Moley : 162), he was not an Imperialist because: (1) the only part of the constitution he was attached to was the voice of the people (O'Ferrall : 54); (2) he hated racism and militarism, two main components at the heart of imperialism (O'Ferrall : 139); (3) he did not share the assumption of superiority held by British imperialists (O'Ferrall : 120) and finally and most importantly, (4) it was out of political expediency that he argued to a specific audience of the British government and public opinion that their support of Irish claims would enhance the British Empire (O'Ferrall : 52). He could see that Ireland and Britain would continue to be interdependent and sought a prosperous, equitable free trade relationship with Britain.…”

“…He could see that Ireland and Britain would continue to be interdependent and sought a prosperous, equitable free trade relationship with Britain. (Moley : 223) Once the promised trade and prosperity linked to Ireland's acceptance of the Act of Union was not realised, he declared “as long as the Union continues, so long must our misfortunes accumulate.” (O'Connell : 18) He reified Irish independence to serve the common good as a goal above all others, including Catholic emancipation (O'Connell : 215); “I abandon all wish for emancipation, if it delays that repeal” (O'Connell : 25).…”

“…He accrued significant debt hosting dignitaries and political elites in Kerry and Dublin whom he needed to influence to achieve emancipation and repeal of the Union. (Moley : 113; Gwynn : 242) Known as a ‘soft touch’ because he was generous to a fault and loaned money to friends, his widening circle of acquaintances became a widening circle of borrowers (Moley : 114). O'Connell sold assets to help pay off his debts.…”