5. The Great Famine (1845-1852)
The Great Famine, spanning from 1845 to 1852, was a catastrophic event in Irish history. The potato blight led to the destruction of the primary food source for the majority of the population, resulting in over a million deaths and prompting mass emigration. The British government’s response, characterized by a policy of non-intervention and inadequate relief efforts, deepened resentment among the Irish and shaped long-lasting attitudes toward British governance (irishtimes.com).
