Since the late nineteenth century, the humble bicycle has played a minor, yet significant role in Irish history. Internationally, the bicycle has been an integral instrument of protest and cultural change. From use during times of revolution, to a tool of cultural nationalism, and a vehicle for calling attention to indigenous language rights, the bicycle is inextricably linked to a formative period in Ireland’s history. This lecture will highlight the role the bicycle has played in history ‘from below’ in matters relating to the revolution, the Irish language, cultural nationalism, and commemoration from the late nineteenth century, right through to recent decades across the island of Ireland.

Barry Sheppard is a PhD researcher in History at Queen’s University Belfast, researching transnational history and the evolution of socio-religious ideas across national borders. Barry is the presenter of ‘History Now’ on Northern Visions Television, and is a previous recipient of the Robert Dudley Edwards History Prize (2012), and the Giving Northern Ireland research bursary (2015).