What was the primary cause of the Great Irish Famine in the mid-19th century? 🔊
The primary cause of the Great Irish Famine, occurring from 1845 to 1852, was the catastrophic failure of the potato crop due to a disease known as late blight. Potatoes were a staple food for millions in Ireland, and the loss of this crop led to widespread starvation and suffering. British government policies exacerbated the crisis, as relief efforts were inadequate, and economic practices favoring exports left locals without necessary food resources. The famine resulted in approximately one million deaths and forced another million to emigrate, profoundly impacting Irish society and its diaspora.
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