The Evolution of the GAA
The Evolution of the GAA brings together leading writers and academics to examine the history of the GAA over 125 years and the antiquity of Gaelic games over previous centuries. This collection outlines the progress made by the organisation and its games in Ireland and abroad, with particular emphasis on Ulster.
The first section comprises a number of personal reflections by prominent members of the GAA from the last seven decades: President Mary McAleese, Cardinal Seán Brady, Paddy McFlynn, Maurice Hayes, Jim McKeever, Peter Quinn and Mickey Harte.
In the second and third sections, a series of academic essays explore various themes of GAA history, such as the antiquity of hurling and related games in Ulster; the founding of the GAA; the role of the press in its propagation; its relationship with the Catholic Church and republican politics; the development of the playing rules of football and hurling; the reduction of violence in the games; camogie up to 1950; and the international dimensions of the GAA.
The final section includes an appraisal of Cardinal Ó Fiaich’s involvement with the GAA, and fresh information about the Ulsterman who attended the first meeting of the association in 1884, John McKay. Also contained are new records of Ulster senior hurling and football championship results and final teams back to 1888. Dozens of previously unpublished photographs and other images feature throughout the volume.
Foilsítear an leabhar seo mar thoradh ar chomhpháirtíocht idir Leabharlann an Chairdinéil Tomás Ó Fiaich, Ard Mhacha, agus Comhairle Uladh CLG.
The Evolution of the GAA will be available from Monday 30th November 2009 at a cost of £20 / €25 + P&P (£5 / €7).
To pre-order your copy of the book, contact Sharon Haughey on sharon.haughey.ulster@gaa.ie / 028 (048) 3751 7180.
