[IRISH-AUSTRALIAN AND IRISH-AMERICAN INTEREST - DE VALERA THE STATESMAN].

[Collection of Newspapers and Ephemera Relating to Éamon de Valera and Irish Independence].

[Ireland]. Irish Press, and Department of Posts and Telegraphs. 1945, 1948, and 1966. Stock ID #219718

Two newspapers and one decorated envelope relating to the post-war efforts of Éamon de Valera to develop his public image as a statesman, and the 50th anniversary of Roger Casement's death. Paper creased and somewhat friable, though overall in good condition.

This collection includes:

A reprint of Taoiseach Éamon de Valera's radio address on the conclusion of World War II in Europe from the 17th May, 1945 issue of the Irish Press titled 'Taoiseach's Broadcast to the Nation'. This speech was highly popular among the Irish people for its rebuke of a self-congratulatory comment made by Winston Churchill, in which he had applauded himself for having not instructed British forces to occupy Ireland during the war akin to the treatment received by neutral Iceland. Includes a small black and white map of England highlighting the southeastern counties mentioned within de Valera's speech.

A copy of a special issue of the Irish Press detailing de Valera's 1948 tour of the world, with particular attention given to his visits to the United States and Australia, and his appeals to the Irish diaspora in those countries. De Valera's visits to the United States and Australia are notable for his highly publicised meetings with both secular and spiritual authorities - namely President Truman, Prime Minister Chifley, Cardinal Spellman, and Archbishop Mannix.

The relationship between de Valera and Mannix is of particular note, as the two had been personal friends since 1912, when they had worked together at St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, remaining close sympathisers with interweaving political careers amidst the turmoil of World War I, the Easter Rising, the War of Independence, and World War II.

At the time of this tour, de Valera was no longer Taoiseach, having been unseated by John Costello, and he had handed de facto leadership of Fianna Fáil in the Dáil to Seán Lemass. Although he would return to the premiership in 1951, de Valera's 1948 tour marked an increasingly deliberate shift towards a more statesman-like popular image which would culminate in his ascension to the presidency in 1959.

Also included is a charming pictorial envelope dated to 1966, dedicated to the 50th anniversary of independence activist Roger Casement's death, with an explanatory card detailing his life and endeavours.

A fascinating collection of valuable information on an important historical figure.

When referring to this item please quote stockid 219718.

Price: $450.00 AU

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