Walter Raleigh
(29/10/1618)
Nestled within the streets of Crumlin, Dublin, Raleigh Square stands as a stark reminder of the contentious legacy of Walter Raleigh, a figure whose actions continue to spark debate and reflection. Born in Devon, England, around 1552, Raleigh’s life was characterised by exploration, exploitation, and the introduction of tobacco to Europe, leaving a troubling mark on both sides of the Atlantic.
Raleigh’s relationship with Ireland is fraught with conflict and colonisation. His participation in the Siege of Smerwick in 1580, where hundreds of Irish rebels were ruthlessly slaughtered, epitomises the brutality of English rule in Ireland. Despite later contributions such as introducing the potato, Raleigh’s most enduring impact lies in his role in bringing tobacco to Europe. During his voyages to the New World, Raleigh encountered indigenous peoples who smoked tobacco as part of their rituals. Recognising its potential for profit, he introduced tobacco to England, where it quickly became a sought-after commodity among the elite.
Raleigh’s introduction of tobacco to Europe laid the foundation for the global tobacco industry, which would later wreak havoc on public health and communities worldwide. The Imperial Tobacco Company, established in the early 20th century, shamelessly capitalised on Raleigh’s legacy, naming a housing estate “Raleigh Square”, which it built for its employees in Crumlin in 1925. Raleigh Square stands as a reminder of this legacy, a monument to the promotion of harmful addictive substances for profit, linking Crumlin to an industry built on the suffering of countless individuals.
With the centenary of Raleigh Square’s construction approaching, one might consider whether the name “Raleigh Square” is still appropriate. In addition to the issues with”Raleigh”, the term “Square” is a misnomer; when built it originally included houses on Windmill Road and Old County Road to form a square but has since been reduced to a right angle formed by two small roads. The central green “square” has also been replaced with buildings – the square no longer exists. On one hand, renaming streets can help communities move away from celebrating figures or events with problematic legacies, aligning with contemporary values of inclusivity and justice. This approach can be particularly significant in addressing the enduring impacts of colonialism, racism, and other injustices. On the other hand, retaining historical names serves as a tangible reminder of history’s complexities, offering opportunities for education and reflection on past mistakes. It underscores the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths rather than erasing them, ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten. Ultimately, the decision to rename or retain street names should involve a thoughtful consideration of both the need for social progress and the preservation of historical consciousness.
As we confront Raleigh’s legacy, it is essential to acknowledge the profound harm he inflicted on both Ireland and the wider world. While his contributions to agriculture and trade may have left a lasting imprint, they also underscore the enduring consequences of imperialism and colonialism. Raleigh’s story serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder of the insidious nature of exploitation and the need to reckon with the darker chapters of history. His name serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of greed and exploitation on communities and cultures, urging us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our shared history.
