In Time of War: Ireland, Ulster and the Price of Neutrality, 1939-45

In Time of War examines Ireland's neutrality during World War II and its complex implications for both the Republic and Northern Ireland. The book focuses on the period between 1939-1945, drawing on official documents and firsthand accounts from both sides of the border. Fisk investigates the challenges faced by Irish Prime Minister Éamon de Valera in maintaining neutrality while navigating relationships with Britain and Germany. The narrative covers military preparations, diplomatic tensions, and daily life in both jurisdictions during wartime. Through detailed research and archival material, the book explores espionage activities, the treatment of crashed Allied airmen, and the stark contrasts between life in Ulster and the Republic during the war years. Special attention is given to the strategic importance of Irish ports and airfields. The work stands as a significant examination of how national identity, sovereignty, and pragmatic politics intersect during times of international crisis. It raises questions about the true cost and meaning of neutrality.

Readers value the book's detailed research and comprehensive examination of Ireland's complex position during WWII. Multiple reviewers note Fisk's effective use of previously classified documents and archival materials to support his analysis. Positive comments focus on: - Clear explanation of Irish-British diplomatic relations - Documentation of German spy activities in Ireland - Coverage of Northern Ireland's wartime experience Common criticisms include: - Dense writing style that can be difficult to follow - Over-emphasis on military details at expense of social history - Limited coverage of the Irish economy during wartime Review Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (47 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.3/5 (12 ratings) One Goodreads reviewer called it "meticulously researched but sometimes dry," while an Amazon reviewer praised its "balanced treatment of a controversial period." Multiple readers noted the book requires prior knowledge of Irish history to fully appreciate.

The Neutrals by Denis J. Fodor This examination of neutral European nations during World War II presents parallels to Ireland's experience through documentation of diplomatic relations, economic pressures, and military preparations in Switzerland, Sweden, and Spain.

That Neutral Island by Clair Wills The book chronicles Ireland's domestic life during World War II through personal accounts, government documents, and media reports that illuminate the social impact of neutrality.

Northern Ireland in the Second World War by Brian Barton This study explores Ulster's wartime role as a base for Allied forces while examining the region's relationship with neutral Ireland and Britain.

The Emergency: Neutral Ireland 1939-45 by Brian Girvin The text presents Ireland's wartime experience through military records, political documents, and economic data that reveal the consequences of neutrality policy.

Ireland's Generals in the Second World War by Richard Doherty The book tracks Irish military officers who served in Allied forces despite their nation's neutrality, providing perspective on divided loyalties during wartime.

🔹 While Ireland remained officially neutral during WWII, author Robert Fisk reveals that the country secretly assisted the Allies by sharing weather reports, allowing the use of Irish airspace, and returning crashed Allied airmen while interning German ones. 🔹 Robert Fisk spent three years researching the book, gaining access to previously classified documents in Dublin, Belfast, and London, including files that had been sealed for 30 years. 🔹 The book exposes how British Prime Minister Winston Churchill considered invading Ireland to secure strategic ports, and drafted detailed military plans for this operation codenamed "Plan W." 🔹 Despite Ireland's neutrality, over 40,000 Irish citizens voluntarily joined British forces during WWII, while thousands more worked in British factories supporting the war effort. 🔹 The author demonstrates how Ireland's wartime neutrality created lasting tensions between North and South, as Belfast suffered heavily from German bombing while the Republic remained uninvolved in the conflict.