An exploration of testamentary behaviour in twentieth-century Ireland

Ciara Breathnach

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This article highlights trends in testamentary behaviour in modern Ireland derived from registers of probate cases. Primary findings show a consistently high level of intestacy in modern Ireland. It argues that such rates were more closely related to popular perceptions rather than an understanding of succession law. It also highlights that while real property was not normally divided pre-mortem transfer of non-fixed assets complicated efforts to understand how estates devolved. Testamentary behaviour also shifted significantly in favour of pious bequests in the period under review.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)309-322
Number of pages14
JournalHistory of the Family
Volume14
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2009

Keywords

  • Celibacy
  • Household formation
  • Inheritance
  • Intestacy
  • Modern Ireland
  • Pious bequests
  • Succession law
  • Testamentary behaviour

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