Irish History Podcast Why Didn't Irish People Eat Fish During the Great Hunger?
Nov 27, 2024
The podcast explores the tragic irony of the Great Hunger, where access to abundant fish didn’t translate to survival. It reveals how historical misconceptions and British policies complicated fishing practices. Residents of coastal communities faced dire economic challenges, even pawning their fishing gear. The discussion sheds light on social dynamics and infrastructural shortcomings that limited effective fishing, exacerbating the food crisis. It challenges the idea that simply fishing could have alleviated the suffering during this dark chapter in Irish history.
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Irish Starvation Paradox
- The Great Hunger was a turning point in Irish history, causing a million deaths from starvation and disease.
- One confusing aspect is that the Irish starved despite being surrounded by rich fishing grounds.
Achill Island Observation
- James Hacktuke, a Quaker involved in famine relief, observed starving people on Achill Island unable to access plentiful fish.
- This highlights the tragic disconnect between available resources and the starving population.
Debunking the 'Irish Dislike Fish' Myth
- The claim that the Irish didn't like or fish or had superstitions against it is inaccurate.
- Starving people would eat anything, highlighting the complexity of the issue.
