Dunlavin historian pens new book on Irish revolutionary figure

A Dunlavin historian has written an exciting new book on Irish revolutionary figure, Robert Barton.

Chris Lawlor's book, 'Robert Barton: A Remarkable Revolutionary' will be launched by Brian Crowley (Curator of Kilmainham Gaol and the Pearse Museum) in the Fox in the Bunditch, Stephen Street, Dunlavin, on Thursday 12 December.

One of the most enigmatic figures to emerge from the Irish Revolution, Robert Barton's place in history was assured when he signed the Anglo-Irish treaty.

Although he was a confidante of de Valera, Barton accepted the terms on offer in 1921.

He voted for the document in both the Cabinet and the Dáil, recommending the treaty to the House in his Treaty Debate speech. Subsequently, however, he took the anti-treaty side in the Civil War.

Although he was central to the birth of the nation, Barton has remained understudied and neglected.

This first study of his life focuses on his role during the Irish Revolution, charting his political journey from a Unionist background through Dual Monarchism and Home Rule to Republicanism and his later anti-treaty stance.

Using multiple sources, including extensive archival material, the book traces the life, times and legacy of this remarkable revolutionary.

The launch in Dunlavin is at 8 p.m., but books will be on sale at €20 per copy from 7 p.m. to facilitate anyone who cannot stay late.

All welcome on the night.