Fitzwilliam's Recall

In 1794 a new Irish Viceroy came to Dublin. This was Earl Fitzwilliam, a man of enlightened views, who recognised the justice of emancipation, and gave his encouragement bravely to the efforts of the Irish leaders. The immediate result was that after he had held office for scarcely three months he was by command of King George suddenly recalled and another man appointed in his place. This act was a death - blow to the constitutional agitation of Grattan, and inspired the United Irishmen with new hopes and a new policy. The events of the time convinced these men that mere constitutional agitation could do nothing under the rule of George III., and that to the France of the Revolution they must look for Ireland's freedom.