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Overview
Christianized in the 5th century by St. Patrick, Ireland preserved classical learning through Europe's early Middle Ages, endured centuries of English domination, and won independence in 1922.
Basic Information
CapitalDublin
Population5.2 million
Area70,273 km²
CurrencyEuro (EUR)
LanguagesIrish, English
RegionWestern Europe
History Timeline
- c. 432Traditional arrival of St. Patrick
- 1169Norman invasion
- 1801Act of Union with Britain
- 1845 – 1852Great Famine
- 1916Easter Rising
- 1922Irish Free State
Ancient Peoples
- Celts
- Gaels
- Vikings
Ancient Kingdoms
- Uí Néill
- Munster
- Leinster
- Connacht
Empires
- British Empire (as subject)
Religions
- Roman Catholicism
- Anglicanism
Culture
Yeats, Joyce, Beckett, traditional music, and a global diaspora.
Language
Irish (Gaeilge) is a Celtic language; English is the majority tongue.
Important Battles
- Battle of Clontarf1014
High King Brian Boru repels Vikings
- Battle of the Boyne1690
William III defeats James II
Historical Figures
Brian Boru
1002 – 1014
High King
Daniel O'Connell
1775 – 1847
Catholic Emancipation leader
Michael Collins
1890 – 1922
Irish revolutionary
Archaeological Sites
- Newgrange
- Hill of Tara
- Skellig Michael
- Rock of Cashel
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Brú na Bóinne (Newgrange)
- Skellig Michael
Dynasties
- Uí Néill
- O'Brien
Colonial Period
Ruled by England / Britain 1169 – 1922; six counties remain in the UK.
Modern History
Neutral EU member; economic boom since the 1990s.