Ribbonman

Ribbonism was mainly a rural phenomenon, so the Ribbonmen lived in the countryside of Ireland, especially in the provinces of Ulster and Leinster.

They often faced harsh living conditions, oppression, and discrimination from the British authorities and the Protestant elite.

They hoped to improve their situation by resisting the payment of tithes, rents, and taxes, and by supporting the Catholic Association and other nationalist groups.

Ribbonism declined in the late 19th century, as other movements such as the Land League and the Home Rule Party gained more popularity and influence.

However, some of the Ribbonmen's traditions and symbols were inherited by the Ancient Order of Hibernians, a fraternal organization of Irish Catholics that still exists today.

The term "Ribbonman" refers to a member of the Ribbonism movement, which was a 19th-century popular movement of poor Catholics in Ireland.

A Ribbonman would typically be seen wearing a green ribbon as a badge in his button-hole, symbolizing his affiliation with the movement.

This green ribbon was a significant identifier and held symbolic value within the society.

Depending on the district, the society was also known as the Fraternal Society, the Patriotic Association, or the Sons of the Shamrock.

The Ribbonmen were part of an agrarian secret society, whose members consisted mainly of rural Irish Catholics.

They formed in response to the dire conditions of tenant farmers and rural workers in early 19th century Ireland.

In terms of appearance, a Ribbonman would likely be dressed in the modest attire of a rural Irish Catholic of the time, which would have been simple and functional, suitable for agricultural work and reflecting the economic status of the lower classes.

The distinctive green ribbon would have been the most notable feature, setting them apart and signaling their commitment to the Ribbonism cause.