Dr. Dennis Sommers leads this series of seven lectures studying the turbulent and fascinating history of Ireland from the time of the “Great Hunger” to the present.
The exploration begins with the physical, political, social and economic causes leading to the “Great Hunger” and delves into the long-lasting ramifications resulting. Dr. Sommers will cover the formation of the “Young Ireland” movement, the massive migration to America and the organization of the Fenian Brotherhood in America and Ireland.
The Irish Republican Brotherhood, Sinn Fein and Michael Collins’ development of the Irish Republican Army will also be discussed. The important role of Irish literature with respect to the various historic periods will also be explored.
Dr. Sommers has been the Director of the Institute of Irish History and Culture’s International Summer School at Trinity College, Dublin for the past 14 years and has lectured at universities heritage and cultural societies in both the United States and Europe. He is an elected member of the United Arts Club of Dublin and has received the Kilkenny Cultural Award.  In the United States he is an elected member of the National Social Science Honor Society.
This class will meet each Thursday from Oct. 6 through Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon at Isothermal Community College’s Polk Center. Call 828-894-3092 to register or visit www.isothermal.edu/learnstuffpolk for more information.
– article submitted by  Kate Barkschat