The Commercial Restraints of Ireland (ePub)

John Hely-Hutchinson (1724-1794) was a notable Irish politician, lawyer, and academic remembered for his contributions to political economy and his advocacy for Irish economic freedoms. Born into a prominent family, Hely-Hutchinson's education and talents paved the way for a distinguished career. He served as Provost of Trinity College Dublin, where he was also a professor of law, and he held several significant legislative positions, including Secretary of State for Ireland. His advocacy for Ireland's economic development reached its zenith with the publication of 'The Commercial Restraints of Ireland' in 1779. In this influential work, Hely-Hutchinson argued cogently against the mercantilist policies that limited Irish trade and benefited British economic interests at the expense of Irish prosperity. His writings were marked by a clarity of argument and a persuasive rhetoric that sought to galvanize support for Irish economic autonomy within the framework of the British Empire. His legacy continues to be felt in the fields of economics and Irish history. Hely-Hutchinson's keen analysis of colonial economic policies and his blueprint for a more equitable system make 'The Commercial Restraints of Ireland' a foundational text in the study of Irish political economy (Barnard, T.C. 'Crisis and Order in English Towns 1500-1700: Essays in Urban History'. Routledge, 1972).