Studies in Irish, British and Australian Relations, 1916-63: Trade, Diplomacy and Politics

This collection of essays brings together the work of the historian John B. O Brien who paved the way in the study of economic history and its effects on diplomacy. Using primary archival sources, he draws novel links between three disparate countries Ireland, Britain and Australia, at crucial moments in their histories. He shows the importance of economic affairs in the determination of diplomatic relationships between these countries and, in particular examines the constant manoeuvering of Ireland and Australia under the Commonwealth structure. By considering pivotal moments, such as Irelands departure from the Commonwealth and Britains decision to join the EEC, John O Brien graphically illustrates the intricacies of international politics and their relationship with the vagaries of trade and diplomacy. Such historical research gives a crucial wider context to Irelands diplomatic affairs during the 1930s, 40s and 50s, and sheds light on Britains relationship with her dominions.