Irish Potato Famine: Key Concepts

The Irish Potato Famine (1845-1852) was caused by potato blight, specifically the fungus Phytophthora infestans. It devastated Ireland, where the population heavily relied on potatoes. The British government's inadequate response, including minimal intervention and continued food exports, worsened the crisis. The famine led to mass emigration, with many Irish fleeing to North America. The famine resulted in over a million deaths and a significant population decline, marking one of the darkest periods in Irish history.

What was the primary cause of the Irish Potato Famine?

• Soil erosion

• Insect infestation

• Potato blight

• Drought

Which variety of potato were the Irish overly reliant on?

• Red Pontiac

• Irish Lumper

• Yukon Gold

• Russet

Who was the British Prime Minister at the start of the famine?

• Charles Trevelyan

• Sir Robert Peel

• Winston Churchill

• Lord John Russell

What was one of the main reasons the corn imported from the United States was unsatisfactory for the Irish?

• It lacked vitamin C

• It was too expensive

• It was difficult to cook

• It was not nutritious

What approach did Lord John Russell's government take towards the famine?

• Direct intervention

• Laissez-faire

• Military enforcement

• Complete isolation

What was a common consequence for Irish peasants who fell behind on their rents?

• They were relocated to other lands

• They were given more time to pay

• They were provided with government aid

• They were evicted

Where did many Irish emigrants establish themselves in the United States?

• Los Angeles

• Boston

• San Francisco

• Chicago

What was the estimated number of Irish who left their homeland due to the famine?

• 500,000

• 1 to 2 million

• Over 5 million

• 3 to 4 million

What was the long-term effect of the famine on Ireland's population?

• Immediate population recovery

• Century-long population decline

• Stable population

• Population growth

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