This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the emergence, consolidation and development of the Irish women's movement, as a social movement, in the course of the twentieth century. It seek to address several lacunae in Irish studies by illuminating the processes through which the movement and, in particular, networks of constituent organisations, came to fruition as agencies of social change. The central argument advanced is that when viewed historically, the Irish women's movement is characterised by its interconnectedness and continuity: the central tensions, themes and organising strategies of the movement connects diverse organisations and constituencies, over time and space. This book will be essential reading for those interested in Irish studies, sociology, history, women's studies, and politics.

LINDA CONNOLLY is Lecturer in Sociology at the University of Cork, Ireland.

Introduction PART I: HISTORY, CULTURE AND...SOCIETY? CONTROVERSIES IN IRISH STUDIES Irish Women: Late Developers? Movement in Abeyance: The Historical Connection PART II: THE MOVEMENT Second Wave Feminism and Equal Rights: Collective Action through Established Means The Irish Women's Liberation Movement: Radicalism, Direct Action, Confrontation Irishwomen United: Political and Ideological Conflicts Changing Orientations and Reappraisal in the 1990s: Abortion, Politics and the Course of Modernity PART III: FEMINIST POLITICS AND IRISH SOCIETY: IMPACT AND CHANGE Facing Up to Difference: Formalism and New Directions in the 1990s Conclusions: Whither the Women's Movement? References Appendices Index