Souvenirs provide a visual key to the remembrance of many historical events, including the Easter Rising of 1916. There is often an unclear division of what constitutes as a “cheesy” or “kitschy” souvenir and serious souvenirs. Additionally, souvenirs hold different significance and share different perspectives depending on where and how they are sold. For example, souvenirs sold in the National Museum of Ireland in Ireland do not necessarily carry the same meaning as commemorative pieces sold online on a Cafe Press Easter Rising souvenirs website. The souvenirs directly from Ireland are more likely to illustrate the traditional models, books, items focused on influential leaders from various areas, and focus on special remembrance of the people who fought and were affected by this crucial period of time leading to Irish independence.
Website of the Irish Studies Group at SUNY Geneseo