From Ireland's first inhabitants to the most recent developments in the peace process, this new edition of Joseph Coohill's popular survey balances historical narrative with insightful commentary, creating a uniquely accessible guide to the history of Ireland and its people.
With a particular focus on the last two hundred years, the book covers all of the key events and personalities, including the Great Famine, Parnell and Home Rule, and the Good Friday Agreement and beyond. The key to understanding the Irish people lies in understanding their past yet, as Professor Coohill demonstrates, that past has been interpreted in many different ways to serve many different ends; the book thus provides a section on interpretation at the end of each chapter, allowing readers to assess the arguments for themselves.
Newly updated with all of the latest developments in the political situation, as well as new historical interpretations, this highly readable work will provide the perfect resource for students, travellers and anyone wishing to gain an insight into the complex identity of Ireland and its people.