Wexford
Although several parts of Ireland were affected by the 1798 Rebellion, the fighting in Wexford was by far the most widespread and brutal. Wexford was very closely linked to Dublin through trade and by the end of the eighteenth century it was mostly English speaking. The United Irishmen were very active in Dublin and in Belfast. However, they also had a strong network in Wexford. In fact, the rebels in Wexford were probably the most organised and successful in the country during the uprising.
Compared to many counties, Wexford had a high proportion of Anglican inhabitants. Some of these wished to grant more equality to Catholics and supported the goals of the United Irishmen, while others did not. This made Wexford a divided county before any actual fighting began. Most Wexford people were in tune with the politics of the day.
Grain prices fell in 1797 and 1798. The farmers who grew grain and the tradesmen who sold it became angry and ready to fight. In this environment, the British Government was very worried. They started a disarmament campaign. This meant English soldiers could raid houses in order to confiscate arms. Many people were very angry about this turn of events. They became afraid of the military and wanted to defend themselves.
Compared to many counties, Wexford had a high proportion of Anglican inhabitants. Some of these wished to grant more equality to Catholics and supported the goals of the United Irishmen, while others did not. This made Wexford a divided county before any actual fighting began. Most Wexford people were in tune with the politics of the day.
Grain prices fell in 1797 and 1798. The farmers who grew grain and the tradesmen who sold it became angry and ready to fight. In this environment, the British Government was very worried. They started a disarmament campaign. This meant English soldiers could raid houses in order to confiscate arms. Many people were very angry about this turn of events. They became afraid of the military and wanted to defend themselves.