Online Talk | Irish Migrants in Early Modern Europe

Between the late sixteenth century and the French Revolution, thousands of men and women left Ireland for Continental Europe and further afield. The lure of education, employment, prosperity and religious tolerance was especially strong, but so too was the desire for adventure and change. By the mid-1600s, the Irish had achieved unprecedented visibility on the Continent: on the battlefields, in the docks of major ports, in the university lecture halls, in royal courts, on the streets and even in hospitals, prisons and galley ships. Many made significant contributions to their receiving societies across Europe and through service in the overseas colonial administrations of Europe’s major powers, especially in the realms of war, education and commerce. This talk explores their diverse experiences.

The new Strangers to Citizens online talk series is part of the official Cultural Programme for Ireland’s Presidency of the European Council. The series explores the story of Irish migration to Europe between 1600-1800, examining both the political and cultural context of this period, as well as the fascinating tales of individuals who made the journey from Stranger to Citizen. In keeping with the spirit of the official Cultural Programme for Ireland's Presidency of the European council, we look forward to welcoming attendees to this online talk series from across Ireland, the European Union and beyond.

The Strangers to Citizens talk series is inspired by a newly developed travelling banner exhibition of the same title, which is currently touring partner organisations across the country. For more information, click here: Irish Presidency of the EU 2026 | National Library of Ireland