James MacHugo facts for kids

James MacHugo was an Irish merchant who lived during a time of big changes in Ireland, between 1797 and 1799. He helped create a group called the United Irishmen in his hometown of Loughrea, which is in County Galway.

James used to sell tobacco. However, he got into trouble for bringing goods into the country without paying taxes, which is called smuggling. Because of this, officers took all his tobacco, and he lost his business. After this, he became very involved with the United Irishmen. He was an important link, helping members in Loughrea talk to members in Dublin.

He worked closely with his friends, Francis Dillon and Peter Finnerty. Together, they built up the United Irishmen's network in Loughrea. They were especially good at getting working people and tradesmen in the town to join. Peter Finnerty was the person who published the United Irish newspaper called the Press. When Peter was put in prison in Dublin in 1798, James MacHugo helped him stay in touch with the group in Loughrea. People at the time believed that Peter Finnerty was sending messages to his friends through James.

The local lord, Richard Trench, 2nd Earl of Clancarty, watched James MacHugo and his friends. He thought they were secretly spreading new ideas about freedom and government to the local people. During this time, there was a lot of unrest. People were taking secret promises to rebel, and there were some violent events, especially in the Slieve Aughty area. However, the government managed to take away many guns and ammunition. So, when the big Irish Rebellion of 1798 happened, County Galway stayed mostly peaceful.

Even in January 1799, James MacHugo was still being watched by the authorities. People were very worried that another rebellion might start. But James stayed free. After this time, he disappears from historical records.

See also

• Edmond MacHugo