Irish Potato Famine

Potato Blight

Sep 9, 1845

Potato BlightA sixth of the year’s crop was harvested in a healthy state and some areas of Ireland were unaffected.

Incorrect Diagnoses

Nov 1, 1845

Incorrect Diagnosis Robert Peel sent scientists into Ireland, but they incorrectly diagnosed the potato blight.

Passed Acts and Laws

Mar 10, 1846

Series of governmental acts and laws were passed to help deal with the famine.

Protest

Jan 10, 1847

ProtestThere was a protest to demand more money held by Irish peers, MPs and landlords, at the Rotunda, in Dublin.[

British Gornment

May 10, 1847

British Government The British government spent over £45 million on public works schemes, ‘which coincided with the period of highest famine mortality, as a result of weak and hungry people being forced to undertake hard, physical labour as a ‘test’ of destitution.’