Lords of the Ascendancy

This book is the first major study of the Irish House of Lords. Though less important than the Commons, the Lords was a viable and important part of the Irish government throughout the eighteenth century. It approved all legislation and initiated some. Many peers also controlled parliamentary boroughs.

This study concentrates on the largely resident peers who attended parliament. It discusses their origins, education, marriages, careers and economic position. Professor James reveals these peers as conscientious public servants who looked at issues seriously and occasionally voted contrary to the wishes of the government of the day. The genealogical data provided here will be a valuable reference source for scholars working in the history of this period.