Croppies Lie Down facts for kids

"Croppies Lie Down" is an old folk song from Ireland. It was written around the time of the 1798 rebellion, which was a big fight in Ireland. The song celebrates the defeat of the Irish rebels, meaning it cheers for the side that won against them. Some people say the song was written by George Watson-Taylor.

This song helps us understand how divided people were in Ireland during the 1798 rebellion. At that time, many Irish Catholics and some other groups called Dissenters faced unfair rules. They were not allowed to take part in politics or have certain jobs. Meanwhile, Britain was fighting a war with France. Some Irish people who wanted change hoped that France would send help to Ireland. The song's words describe the rebels as sneaky and not brave. It praises the soldiers who fought against them as heroes protecting innocent people. The word "Croppies" was a nickname for the rebels. It referred to their short hair, which was a popular style among French revolutionaries. This was different from the long wigs worn by rich people. In a book from 1862 called Wild Wales, the writer George Borrow met an Irish musician who played this song.

What the Song is About

The song "Croppies Lie Down" tells a story from the point of view of the soldiers who fought against the rebels. It shows how strongly people felt during the rebellion.

Soldiers' Pride

The song starts with the soldiers saying they are proud to be from Ireland. They promise to fight bravely against the rebels and the French. They say they are fighting for their religion, their freedom, and their laws. They also fight for their King and country. Their goal is to make the "traitors and croppies" give up and "lie down."

Rebels' Actions

The song describes the rebels as being brave only when no one is fighting them. It says they attack houses and farms. It also claims they hurt religious leaders and their families. But, according to the song, the rebels run away when they see a soldier. It says that when soldiers march through towns, the "croppies" hide in ditches and basements.

Dublin and French Threats

The song mentions that rebels in Dublin were ready to start trouble. It suggests they planned to hurt many people. But the soldiers, called "yeoman," stopped them. The song also warns that if France ever tries to invade Ireland, they will only find graves there. It says that the Irish soldiers will win, and the "croppies" will end up defeated with their French friends.

A Warning to Rebels

Finally, the song tells the "croppies" to be quiet and still. It says they will not get their freedom, no matter what they do. The song promises that the soldiers will always keep control over the "croppies." It ends with a toast to the soldiers who made the "croppies lie down."

See also

• The Boyne Water
• Lillibullero