Seán Lemass: Democratic Dictator

by Bryce Evans

Sean Lemass (1899-1971) enjoys unrivalled acclaim as the 'Architect of Modern Ireland', to Fianna Fail he is a modern icon. What emerges in this groundbreaking study is the real Sean Lemass: an authoritarian, cunning, workaholic patriot; a shrewd political tactician. This is the untold story of a great man and his lasting impact on a nation.

Genres: History

328 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2011

About the author

Bryce Evans is Associate Professor in History at Liverpool Hope University in England,

Reviews

[B Mur · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting and enjoyable read. The book gives a very good impression of what Sean Lemass was like, highlighting his dictatorial tendencies during his time in the department of industry and commerce. The book provides a more thorough, paced exploration of his time in that department and in opposition than it does of his time as Taoiseach. I would, to a certain extent, agree with the author’s conclusions that the view of Lemass should be more nuanced than his popularity would suggest. The book provides a really interesting and well-laid out exploration of how a politicians views can change over time.

The threads of Lemass’ career are very well connected here, leading to the opportunity to gain an enhanced understanding of his views, career and legacy as a whole.

[William Sherlock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable but seemed to end in a rush

It was very readable but ended in a rush, with little discussion of what Lemass actually did as as prime minister. One huge missing item was that of the introduction of free secondary education in Ireland, which over the next generation changed Ireland forever.