A new book titled "The Belfast Riot of 1847," written by Dr. Callum Beck, sessional lecturer at UPEI, and published by Island Studies Press, will be launched on March 5, 2025, at 7 pm, in the Faculty Lounge (Room 201), SDU Main Building, UPEI.

In his book, Dr. Beck examines the social and political conditions that led to the Belfast Riot of March 1, 1847. The riot involved about 200 Scottish Protestants and 300 Irish Catholics and resulted in at least three men dead and up to 100 others injured; it set the stage for the hardening of the sectarian conflict between Protestants and Catholics on PEI for the next 125 years. Dr. Beck introduces us to the major players on both sides, provides a detailed account of its unfolding, and takes a nuanced look at who was to blame. 

"The Belfast Riot of 1847" was published with the support of a SSHRC Exchange Publication Award from the Office of the Vice-President, Academic and Research at UPEI. 

Another launch will take place in Summerside on March 30, at 1 pm, at the Eptek Art and Culture Centre.

Both events are free, and all are welcome. Thanks to the Bookmark, books will be available for purchase. For more information, contact Bren Simmers at Island Studies Press, 902-566-0386 or ispstaff@upei.ca.