This volume examines how the Scotch-Irish came to Ireland, and the events that caused their immigration to the United States.

Originally published: 2014, as Hard times: the divisive toll of the economic slump.

A history of the author's political experiences, covering the '48 Movement, the Phoenix Conspiracy, the Fenian Rising, the Tenant-Right, Amnesty, and Home Rule agitations, the Parnellite Movement, the "Split," the Forgeries Commission, the Land League, the Coercion Acts, State Prosecutions, etc.

FELICITY - HARD TIMES, HAPPY DAYS is a tribute to the courage, spirit, and kindness of a remarkable woman. She and her family were neither giants of industry nor people of singular accomplishments, but they, like millions of others like them, who struggled to survive hard times, were the back bone of this growing nation. Hard work and family bonds helped them make ends meet and get by through difficult times. They represent the indomitable spirit that built America. While the book is about overcoming difficulties and tragic events well before our more comfortable modern age, it is a book of hope, filled with delightful stories of growing up when life was simpler, and countless humorous adventures in the struggle to simply survive in more rugged times. Felicity and her family’s story of hope, struggle and endurance during the difficult years between 1903 and WWII will serve as an inspiration to anyone who reads the book. For despite those difficult years she never lost her sense of fun and adventure, and enjoyed life to its fullest - always maintaining a half-cup-full attitude. ----------------- This book is a tapestry of the life and times of the people who came before us. I could hear my family in your words, and watch them struggle with both success and failure. Felicity - Hard Times, Happy Days is a heartwarming story about a woman we can all relate to and love. She had the kind of courage, determination and love of family that helped shape our nation ... it’s a wonderful story! Brian Ratty Author of the Dutch Clarke series

The Bad Times: An Drochshaol is a story of pain and suffering, but also one of love and loyalty. Brigit, Daniel, and Liam are three teenagers from County Clare in the west of Ireland who live through the horrors of the Great Hunger in Ireland, also remembered by survivors as The Bad Times. The bonds of love and friendship between the teens are put to the test during Ireland's Great Hunger as they each make the tough decisions needed to survive. Their story is movingly told in this new graphic novel by historian Christine Kinealy and graphic novelist John Walsh. The Bad Times is set during the Great Hunger, a disaster precipitated by the failure of the potato crop, but exacerbated by the inadequate policies of the British government and the cruelty and opportunism of some landowners and merchants. It takes place between 1846 and 1849. The Bad Times is based on the experiences of three young adults, Dan, Brigit and Liam, who are close friends, and their loyal dog, Cú. When the story commences, in late summer 1846, the potato crop is about to fail for a second time. The location is Kilkee, County Clare in the west of Ireland, an area which suffered acutely during the Great Hunger. Irish would have been widely spoken, so Irish phrases have been included to reflect this. A Glossary has been provided at the back of the book.