Conor Cruise O'Brien Quotes

A collection of quotes by Conor Cruise O'Brien.

Conor Cruise O'Brien (1917-2008) was an influential Irish politician, diplomat, historian, and writer. Born in Dublin, Ireland, he studied at Trinity College Dublin and joined the Irish diplomatic service in 1944. Throughout his career, O'Brien held several diplomatic posts, including serving as Ireland's United Nations representative.

O'Brien first came to prominence in the early 1960s as a member of the Irish Labour Party and was elected to the Irish parliament in 1969. He quickly established himself as a formidable debater and intellectual, renowned for his articulate and often controversial viewpoints. O'Brien was well-known for his staunch anticommunist stance during the Cold War era and his open criticism of Soviet-backed movements.

As a historian and writer, O'Brien authored numerous influential books on Irish history and politics. His best-known works include "The Siege: The Saga of Zionism and Israel" (1986) and "To Katanga and Back: A UN Case History" (1962). Through his writings, O'Brien often examined the complexities of national identity, colonialism, and international relations.

Conor Cruise O'Brien's contributions to Irish politics, intellectual discourse, and historical writing left a lasting impact. His willingness to engage in controversial debates and challenge established norms established him as one of Ireland's most renowned intellectuals. O'Brien passed away in 2008, leaving behind a rich and diverse body of work.