It is commonly believed that James Connolly initiated modern Irish socialism when he founded the Irish Socialist Republican Party in May 1896. This book challenges that myth by making available for the first time a detailed history of the beginnings of modern Irish socialism. Based on original sources, this study traces the development of socialism in Ireland from the influence of William Thompson, Marx and the First International through to the arrival of Connolly and the struggle for independence. The author explores the radicalizing element of the land war, the impact of British socialism in Ireland, and the emergence of socialist organizations in Dublin. He also examines the leading role played by socialists in the politicization of the labour movement and charts their changing position in relation to Irish independence.