Irish Potato Famine

The Irish Potato Famine, occurring from 1845 to 1852, was a devastating period in Ireland when a potato disease, known as late blight, destroyed crops. Potatoes were a staple food for the Irish population, especially the poor. The resulting famine led to the deaths of approximately one million people and caused mass emigration, with many fleeing to the United States and elsewhere. The British government's inadequate response exacerbated the crisis, resulting in widespread suffering and social upheaval. The famine had lasting effects on Ireland’s demographics, economy, and relationship with Britain.