In this sequel to his critically acclaimed King Dan, Patrick Geoghegan examines the latter part of O'Connell's life and career. Daniel O'Connell, often referred to as The Liberator, was an Irish political leader in the first half of the 19th century. One of the most remarkable historical figures in Irish history, he campaigned for Catholic Emancipation, including the right for Catholics to sit in the Westminster Parliament, and repeal of the Act of Union which combined Great Britain and Ireland.

An Irish College was established in Rome in 1628 in order to prepare priests for the Irish mission. As part of an elaborate network of such colleges across the continent, the Irish College was always more than a seminary; it served as an 'embassy' and focus of Irish Catholic interests in Rome and remained such until the 20th century when Ireland established formal diplomatic relations with the Holy See. This collection illustrates that dual role; based upon the archival holdings of the College it presents an insight into the history of the Irish College and its complex world.