Charles Gavan Duffy. Patriot and Statesman. The Story of Charles Gavan Duffy (1816-1903). Dublin: Duffy, 1967. First edition. Pp, 164. Fine copy pictorial d.j. Charles Gavan Duffy was the most prolific historian of 19th century Ireland. He was a leading figure in Irish politics between 1842 and 1855, taking part in the repeal of the union with Britain (1840’s) and the Tenant League (1850’s).