WAKEFIELD, Edward. An Account of Ireland, Statistical and Political. Two volumes. With folding plate and map of Ireland.

London: Longman, Hurst, 1812. Quarto. pp. (1) [i], xxiv, 762, (2) [i], 838, 88 (index). Modern half calf on marbled boards, title, volume number and year in gilt on spine. Paper repair to titlepage. Occasional light foxing. A very good set.

Goldsmiths'-Kress library of economic literature no. 20440. Bradshaw 7752.
The author resided in Ireland and travelled throughout the country for nearly two years, for the purpose of collecting materials for this outstanding work. He goes on to state: "When I was in Ireland, I applied for information to people of every rank, from the nobleman to the peasant. To give a list of the persons to whom I am under obligations, would appear ostentatious. Those to whom I am indebted for hospitality, great kindness, and material assistance in the prosecution of my labours, will, I hope, be contented with the only return for their generosity and disinterestedness which I have it in my power to make - my warmest thanks, and lively remembrance of their favours. It will be perceived that I am indebted to the Right Honourable Wellesley Pole for many official documents, without any stipulation respecting the principles of my work; a proof of his liberality, and of his willingness that facts should be laid before the public from incontrovertible documents."
Highly important source for the Socio-Economic History of Ireland. With chapters on: Name, Situation, Extent, and Divisions; Soil, Bogs, and Minerals; Climate; Landed Property; Rental, and Tenures; Rural Economy; Harbours; Light Houses; Internal Communication; Manufactures, and National Industry; Topography; Police; Commerce; Imports; In-land Fisheries; Herring Fishery; The Past State of Money and Circulating Medium; Weights and Measures; Prices; Revenue and Finance; Representation; Government; Administration of Law; Grand Jury; Rebellion of 1798 - The Rising of the People; The French Invasion; Education; Charter Schools; Foundling Hospital; Church Establishment; Tithe; Religious Sects and Parties - Catholic Claims; Catholic Clergy; Catholic Population; Religious Sects and Parties in the Counties of Ireland; Population; Customs, Manners, and Habits in the Counties of Ireland; Defence, etc. Includes bibliographical references and index.

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