Memorandum 'Sinn Fein' by Hagan
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DigitalGeorgetown
Pontifical Irish College
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Hagan, John
Hagan, John, 1873-1930
Description
[pre-November 1918] Typescript memorandum with handwritten corrections entitled 'Sinn Fein' by (Hagan) [for an Irish audience]. Discussing at length the history of Irish opposition to Britain, with a special focus on the foregoing century and recent events; culminating in arguments (11 points) in favour of Ireland's bid for independence at the Peace Congress. Tracing origin of expression 'sinn fein' as a national sentiment; and in quoting [Daniel] O'Connell, sketching history of English occupation, instances of resistance, the rising tide of grievances and determination, broken promises over Home Rule: 'the English government... taught them that rulers may sometimes be guilty of treason against the state + they govern. The Sinn Fein movement was the result of the teaching.' Recent developments; Ireland's participation in the war; the split of the Party; Irish volunteers and the insurrection of 1916. Condemning the 'savagery with which it was repressed..., the shooting of untried prisoners, the indiscriminate slaughter of scores of innocent men, and the reign of terror and deportation that followed...'; increasing the anti-English element. Particular regard for Sir Roger Casement. Sinn Fein now 'practically controls the policy of Ireland at the present moment', using the two weapons of passive resistance to English law, and an appeal to the Peace Congress. Among points in favour of Ireland's independence, stating that Ireland, compared to other occupied countries (Poland, Alsace-Lorraine, Balkans), has suffered declining prosperity in the past century. (Dating: war still ongoing.)
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http://hdl.handle.net/10822/1075887Date
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The Papers of John Hagan (1904-1930)
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