The Old Irish World

Alice Stopford Green (1847-1929) was an Irish historian and nationalist. Born Alice Sophia Amelia Stopford in County Meath, Ireland, she moved to London after her marriage to the British historian, John Richard Green. A fervent advocate for Irish history and independence, she played a significant role in the revision of the perception of Irish history in the English-speaking world. Her literary style combined rigorous historical research with a vivid prose that brought the past to life, while her works often reflected her political convictions. After her husband's death, she became more politically active and began publishing historical works, with a focus on eradicating the Anglo-centric narrative that she believed dominated the understanding of Irish history. Her most famous work, 'The Old Irish World' (1912), is characterized by its engaging storytelling and thorough scholarly research. In it, Green explores the heritage and civilization of ancient Ireland, countering the contemporary English narratives that often portrayed Irish culture as backward. Green's work was instrumental in rekindling an interest in Irish history and culture during the crucial period leading up to the Irish War of Independence. As an author, she embraced a literary style that intertwined history with advocacy, aiming not only to inform but also to inspire her readers towards a new appreciation for the richness of Irish heritage.