A new book celebrates Irish achievements throughout history, and the positive impact our nationals have had on the world.
‘What have the Irish ever done for us?’ is the question asked by author David Forsythe, before he goes on to detail some of the more brilliant achievements from Irish people that you may not have known about.
For example, did you know that it was Irish physicist Ernest Walton that was the first person to artificially split the atom?
The Co Waterford scientist was awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1951 for his work which broke new ground in science and began the nuclear age.
Mary Harris, who became known as Mother Jones, is another Irish character that is featured in the book.
Born in Cork, she moved to America and became a fierce activist for the rights of the working class, particularly women and children. Such was Mother Jones’ reputation, she was described by wealthy business owners as the “most dangerous woman in America”.
Another prominent Irish person who is discussed in the book in Dr Vincent Barry. The Cork doctor led a team of scientists at Trinity College on a study on the tuberculosis. Their work helped in finding a cure for the related disease leprosy.
There are several more Irish people who left their mark on history featured in the book. It is a fascinating look at the achievements and struggles gone through by all sorts of character, many of which are stories you may not have heard before.
If you would like to purchase a copy of What Have the Irish Ever Done For Us? then it is available on amazon.com.
Written by Andrew Moore