Fragment Draft Memorandum by Hagan

Cover for Fragment Draft Memorandum by Hagan
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DigitalGeorgetown
Pontifical Irish College
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Hagan, John
Hagan, John, 1873-1930
Description
Fragment typescript drafts of memorandum with handwritten corrections entitled 'Memorandum on the Irish Situation and Settlement' by (Hagan) (7 pages). In three parts, replies to the questions what Ireland wants, what is expected to result from the current situation, and what is the minimum it expects by way of solution. Claiming complete independence in accordance with the wishes of the majority. Discussing import of Allied pronunciations on the cases of Bohemia and Poland; the Pope could not mention Ireland for diplomatic reasons. Quotation from resolution passed by the American Federation of Labour (Minnesota, July) about defending small nations and Ireland specifically; contrasting the pro-British but negligible pronouncements on Ireland's subservient character by Luigi Luzzatti (Corriere della Sera). Recent visit of foreign journalists; arguments for Ireland taking its small economy in hand. Doubtful England could be trusted to even grant Dominion Home Rule. Sketching Ireland's anti-English stance in first part of the war; change of heart since involvement of the United States complemented by President Wilson's statements of intent concerning small nations. Present state of martial law in Ireland cause anxiety that Wilson will not be able to enforce his tenets. Then illustrating the present state of unrest in Ireland, martial law, internments, censorship of the press, causing even the moderate Daily Independent to call Ireland a 'prison camp'- the garrison of 100,000 soldiers is only possible because the men were replaced by Americans at the front. Expressing bitterness over the degree of ignorance in America, causing it to blame the Irish for obstructing the war effort. Wishing that neutral countries like Spain would have a voice in the final settlement; hoping the Holy Father would also be in a position to participate – appreciating that at the present moment any protest of his would be misinterpreted. 'But it is some consolation to feel that there is in the world at least one great moral power upon whose sympathy they can rely when all [other] powers appear to have deserted them or are deaf to their plight'. (Dating by quotation from a letter from M.J.C urran, 29 September 1918.)
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1918-10
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The Papers of John Hagan (1904-1930)
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