This masterwork brings together a searching inquiry into the structures and dynamics of political culture and a careful, painstaking examination of a pivotal episode in the forging of Irish nationalist identity. Engaged in fruitful dialogue with studies of political contention and social movements, nationalism and collective identity formation, ritual process, and historical change, it will take its place alongside such classics of the genre as William Sewell, Jr.'s Work and Revolution in France. - Mustafa Emirbayer, Professor of Sociology, University of Wisconsin at Madison, USA
Kane illuminates brilliantly the transformations of Irish national identity in the 'Land War' of 1879 to 1882. Her theoretically informed analysis of the Land War's contentious and ever-changing political discourse is subtle and fascinating. The book combines theoretical novelty, exhaustive archival research, and compelling narrative. It is a splendid contribution both to Irish history and to cultural and historical sociology. - William H. Sewell, Jr., University of Chicago, USA