The Last Word with Matt Cooper Think You Know The Presidents? Mary McAleese
Oct 21, 2025
Matt Cooper, a seasoned broadcaster, shares his insights on Mary McAleese, Ireland’s eighth president. He explores her Northern upbringing and the challenges of bridging divides in a turbulent political landscape. Topics include her role in the peace process and the significance of her outreach to the Orange bands. The podcast also covers her presidency during contrasting economic phases—from the Celtic Tiger to financial crisis—highlighting her unique relationship with Queen Elizabeth II and how it enhanced Ireland's global standing.
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Building Bridges
- Mary McAleese made
Violence Shaped Her Northern Upbringing
- Mary McAleese grew up in Ardoyne as a Catholic in a largely Protestant area and experienced violence close-up.
- Her family faced targeted attacks that forced them to move to Andersonstown, shaping her peace-building outlook.
Personal Loss At Start Of Marriage
- Two friends invited to Mary McAleese's wedding were killed before the ceremony, leaving the couple grieving on their honeymoon.
- Mary described spending the first night of her honeymoon curled up in grief, showing personal cost of the Troubles.