This work provides a pan-European survey of the Jacobite phenomenon. It examines Jacobitism in all three kingdoms and offers an interpretation of the impact of the Jacobites on the history of Britain and Europe. The book also provides a survey of the debates that still surround the subject and acquaints the student with the most recent writing and research. Szechi explains what Jacobitism was and what it did. He then goes on to examine who the Jacobites were, focusing particularly on their socio-economic status, social networks and religious affiliations. He also looks in detail at the ideology of Jacobitism and the rediscovered voice of popular Jacobitism. Additionally, such areas as the Irish dimension and the Jacobite diaspora are explored. This textbook aims to lead students clearly and thoroughly through one of the most complex subjects in eighteenth-century history.
One of the more engaging non-fiction books on an esoteric topic that I've read. It could be that I've developed a decent background in the subject matter at this point, but I also think this was just easier to read than many of the other books in this area. I greatly enjoyed it!
One of the most lucid and clearly written history books I have ever read. You do need an awareness of the basic facts of the Jacobite movement to be able t follow this, but the thematic approach fills in the details beautifully.