The Rise of the Catholic Middle Class: O’Connellites in County Longford, 1820–50

Voluntary Associations and Political Participation

“…The Catholic Association, Sheil exclaimed, was engaged in 'the great work of liberation' that could be seen all over the world. 22 These references popularized the notion that colonial injustice was rightfully challenged, and that victory in a colonial freedom struggle was possible. What is more, they invited all Irishmen and Irishwomen to become a part of this great work of liberation, investing the struggle around local grievances with a new importance and attraction.…”