Case Study: Population Change in a Developed Country – Ireland
History – The Great Famine z„
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In 1841, the population of the Republic of Ireland was 6.5 million. However, in the years 1845–52, Ireland experienced the Great Famine. The potato crop failed because of blight.
The food supply was cut off; as a result, more than one million people died, and a further one million people emigrated to escape hunger, disease and poverty.
From what you can see in the image, describe what blight does to potatoes.
After the Famine z„
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Describe the physical appearance of the people portrayed here. Explain what you think they may have been thinking and feeling during the Great Famine.
Many people left Ireland for the United States, Britain, Canada and Australia.
Those who left were mainly young people, and more females than males left. This had an impact on marriage and birth rates.
