The Select Speeches of Daniel O'connell, M. P

The Select Speeches Of Daniel O'Connell, M. P — Daniel O'Connell. This volume presents a compelling panorama of Daniel O'Connell's public oratory and political leadership during the Irish emancipation era. It surveys speeches delivered at Catholic Board meetings in Dublin and Cork and in Parliament, focusing on Catholic emancipation, religious liberty, and the independence of church discipline from Crown influence. Central episodes include the defense of press freedom in reporting trials such as Magee’s Kilkenny proceedings, debates over securities that would place ministerial vetoes on Catholic appointments, and calls for national unity to resist factionalism. O'Connell argues for unqualified emancipation linked to constitutional reform, rebuts forged petitions and political manipulation, and demands accountability for royal pledges regarding Catholic rights. The volume also traces tensions with English prejudice, the role of bishops, and the strategy to build a broad Irish movement—advocating repeal of the Union, economic self-reliance, and peaceful, lawful means to secure civil and religious rights while preserving doctrinal integrity.