Description

Armagh and the Great War is the first comprehensive study of County Armagh’s experience during the First World War. Written by historian Colin Cousins and published by The History Press Ireland, the book explores how a county with an industrialised north, a predominantly rural south, deep religious divisions, and strong Unionist traditions responded to one of the defining conflicts of the twentieth century. Drawing on extensive archival research and many previously unseen sources, Cousins presents a detailed account of the military, political, and social realities faced by the people of Armagh between 1914 and 1918.

Rather than focusing solely on the battlefield, the book examines life on the home front, revealing the contributions of charities, schools, churches, youth organisations, and women’s groups in supporting the war effort. It also explores the personal sacrifices made by local families as thousands of men served on the Western Front, documenting the emotional and social impact of loss, injury, and separation. Cousins challenges simplistic interpretations of Unionist loyalty by presenting a nuanced picture of the motivations, experiences, and changing attitudes of those who lived through the conflict.

Richly illustrated with photographs, maps, and historical records, Armagh and the Great War offers an authoritative and engaging account of a county profoundly shaped by global events. Essential reading for anyone interested in Irish history, military history, genealogy, or the social impact of the First World War, this meticulously researched volume provides valuable insight into a pivotal period in both local and national history.