The Great Famine of Ireland, also known as the Irish Potato Famine, occurred between 1845 and 1852 and resulted in the death of an estimated one million Irish people and the emigration of over two million more. The famine was primarily caused by a fungus called Phytophthora infestans, which destroyed potato crops in Ireland. However, the famine was exacerbated by a number of factors, including the British government's policies, which some argue amounted to genocide.

Following are the reasons some argue that the famine was a genocide according to Mike Dash's book:

- Exportation of food from Ireland continued throughout the famine. In 1847 alone, over four million barrels of oats and oatmeal were exported from Ireland, while nearly one million people received famine relief.

- The British administration in Ireland was aware of the impending famine and did nothing to prevent it. The British had advance warning of the famine and could have taken steps to mitigate its effects, such as providing food relief or encouraging farmers to grow other crops. However, they failed to do so.

- The British government actively pursued policies that contributed to the famine. These policies included the Corn Laws, which kept food prices high, and the Poor Laws, which made it difficult for the destitute to obtain relief.

- The British government discriminated against the Irish people. The Irish were treated as second-class citizens by the British, and this discrimination was reflected in the government's policies towards Ireland.

The Irish Famine was a devastating event in Irish history, and it is still debated today who is to blame for the famine. Some argue that the British government's policies amounted to genocide, while others believe that the famine was a natural disaster that could not have been prevented. Regardless of where one stands on this issue, it is important to remember the victims of the famine and the lessons that can be learned from this tragic event.

Here are some of the lessons that the world failed to learn from the Irish Famine:

- The importance of food security. The Irish Famine showed that a country can be vulnerable to famine even if it is not at war. It is important for countries to have plans in place to ensure that their populations have access to food in the event of a crop failure or other natural disaster.

- The need for international cooperation. The Irish Famine showed that no country can be immune to the effects of a famine. In the event of a global food crisis, it is important for countries to work together to ensure that everyone has access to food.

- The importance of human rights. The Irish Famine showed that the denial of human rights can lead to devastating consequences. It is important for governments to respect the human rights of their citizens, including the right to food.

The Irish Famine was a tragedy that should never have happened. By learning from this event, we can help prevent future famines and ensure that everyone has the right to food.