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‘Our Cattle Problem’: Fianna Fáil, the Irish Cattle Trade and the Economic War, 1932–1938

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  • Michael Loughman

Abstract

The 1930s was a period of profound crisis for Irish dry cattle farmers. Understandably, many blamed the then Fianna Fáil government, which instigated a trade dispute with Britain and harboured a deep aversion to the cattle trade. In this context, many viewed the government's decision to reduce the cattle herd in 1934 as part of a grand plan to upend largescale cattle farming. As this article demonstrates, the situation was far more complex. The government certainly sought to reform Irish agriculture but was unwilling to preside over the complete collapse of the cattle trade. The Irish government's intransigence played a part, but the worst years of the crisis also owed much to British protectionism. Yet, notwithstanding the conditions, farmers stubbornly stuck to cattle.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Loughman, 2025. "‘Our Cattle Problem’: Fianna Fáil, the Irish Cattle Trade and the Economic War, 1932–1938," Irish Economic and Social History, , vol. 52(1), pages 110-131, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ieshis:v:52:y:2025:i:1:p:110-131
    DOI: 10.1177/03324893241306418
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