ES102 Lecture Notes - Subsistence Agriculture, Phytophthora Infestans
Document Summary
1 million in ireland died from hunger and related illness during the great. 23 previous outbreaks of starvation since 1739. Best lands are taken over by english landlords. Land productivity in ireland decreases from east to west in ireland. Native irish subsistence agriculture economy exists alongside capitalist agricultural economy. Farmers sold hogs, grain for cash to pay rent; subsisted on potatoes. Many went to uk for seasonal work during hungry months. At time of colonization the potato is introduced to ireland. Traditionally high birth rate; potato helps reduce death rate and extend longevity. Subsistence farms are supporting ever higher population. End of napoleonic wars 1815, expansion of trade with europe, usa. Increased pressure on rural economy as landlords try to extract more yield $ from farms. Potato blight (a fungus) arrives from continental europe. British government refuses to intervene, saying it must protect free trade and rights of private. Livestock production and export from ireland continues unabated property owner.
