Additional Learning Resources for The Build Your Masterpiece Class | Adventures in Ireland: Adventure 1: Lesson 1: The History of the Irish Potato

OPTIONAL BOOKs TO READ:

Jaime O'Rourke and the Big Potato by Tomie dePaola

Potato Joe by Keith Baker

Mr. Crum's Potato Predicament by Anne Renaud

When you think about Potatoes, you may recall that Ireland is most known country for it's Potatoes, and it's true! But, did you know that no one actually knows for sure where the potatoes in Ireland came from? Some think it was from the famous English Explorer, sea captain and poet, Walter Raleigh, and that he brought it back to his estate in the 1590's. The story says that the tubers were planted by his gardener, even though he didn't know what they were. However, it seems to be a little bit of a fable that he introduced them to Ireland…. Read more in our Adventures in Ireland 1 PDF here.

Topics we learn in today’s lesson:

History of the Potato, when it came to Ireland, what the Irish people grew mostly before the Potato, the type of cooking methods used in the 1600-1800’s in Ireland, and the weather. We will also learn a bit about the Blight, and the loss it caused. This history lesson will lead us into our Artist Spotlight/Art Appreciation lesson next.

Video’s to Watch to learn more about the History of the Potato, Ireland and more:

If you are interested to learn more about the History of Cooking and Recipes from Ireland, this video from Donal Sken who is Rediscovering the Irish Kitchen (Episode One)

Details About the Potato Famine

https://youtu.be/gAnT21xGdSk