This book explores the dilemma of Irish constitutional nationalism in the period from the fall of Parnell to the rise of Sinn Fein, when the two competing wings of conciliators and militants, struggled for control of the movement.

By laying stress on the grass roots dimensions and divisions of Irish constitutional nationalism, the book offers an original interpretation of the reasons for its collapse, and poses questions about the capacity for flexibility of the Unionist and nationalist traditions which are relevant today.