Ireland 9781422222478, 1422222470

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Major

European Union Nations Austria Belgium Czech Republic Denmark France Germany Greece Ireland

Italy The Netherlands Poland Portugal Spain Sweden United Kingdom

Ireland

by

Ida Walker and Shaina C. Indovino Mason Crest

Mason Crest 370 Reed Road, Broomall, Pennsylvania 19008 www.masoncrest.com Copyright © 2013 by Mason Crest, an imprint of National Highlights, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission from the publisher. Printed in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. First printing 987654321 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Walker, Ida. Ireland / by Ida Walker and Shaina C. Indovino. p. cm. — (The European union—political, social, and economic cooperation) Includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN 978-1-4222-2247-8 (hardcover) — ISBN 978-1-4222-2231-7 (series hardcover) — ISBN 9781-4222-9269-3 (ebook) 1. Ireland—Juvenile literature. 2. European Union—Ireland—Juvenile literature. I. Indovino, Shaina Carmel. II. Title. DA906.W325 2012 941.7—dc22 2010051332 Produced by Harding House Publishing Services, Inc. www.hardinghousepages.com Interior layout by Micaela Sanna. Cover design by Torque Advertising + Design.

Contents Introduction 8 1. Modern Issues 11 2. Ireland’s History and Government 15 3. The Economy 31 4 Ireland’s People and Culture 41 5. Looking to the Future 51 Time Line 56 Find Out More 58 Glossary 59 Index 61 Picture Credits 62 About the Authors 63 About the Series Consultant 64

Ireland European Union Member since 1973

Introduction Sixty years ago, Europe lay scarred from the battles of the Second World War. During the next several years, a plan began to take shape that would unite the countries of the European continent so that future wars would be inconceivable. On May 9, 1950, French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman issued a declaration calling on France, Germany, and other European countries to pool together their coal and steel production as “the first concrete foundation of a European federation.” “Europe Day” is celebrated each year on May 9 to commemorate the beginning of the European Union (EU). The EU consists of twenty-seven countries, spanning the continent from Ireland in the west to the border of Russia in the east. Eight of the ten most recently admitted EU member states are former communist regimes that were behind the Iron Curtain for most of the latter half of the twentieth century. Any European country with a democratic government, a functioning market economy, respect for fundamental rights, and a government capable of implementing EU laws and policies may apply for membership. Bulgaria and Romania joined the EU in 2007. Croatia, Serbia, Turkey, Iceland, Montenegro, and Macedonia have also embarked on the road to EU membership. While the EU began as an idea to ensure peace in Europe through interconnected economies, it has evolved into so much more today: • Citizens can travel freely throughout most of the EU without carrying a passport and without stopping for border checks. • EU citizens can live, work, study, and retire in another EU country if they wish. • The euro, the single currency accepted throughout seventeen of the EU countries (with more to come), is one of the EU’s most tangible achievements, facilitating commerce and making possible a single financial market that benefits both individuals and businesses. • The EU ensures cooperation in the fight against cross-border crime and terrorism. • The EU is spearheading world efforts to preserve the environment. • As the world’s largest trading bloc, the EU uses its influence to promote fair rules for world trade, ensuring that globalization also benefits the poorest countries. • The EU is already the world’s largest donor of humanitarian aid and development assistance, providing around 60 percent of global official development assistance to developing countries in 2011.

The EU is not a nation intended to replace existing nations. The EU is unique—its member countries have established common institutions to which they delegate some of their sovereignty so that decisions on matters of joint interest can be made democratically at the European level. Europe is a continent with many different traditions and languages, but with shared values such as democracy, freedom, and social justice, cherished values well known to North Americans. Indeed, the EU motto is “United in Diversity.” Enjoy your reading. Take advantage of this chance to learn more about Europe and the EU! Ambassador John Bruton, Former EU President and Prime Minister of Ireland

1 CHAPTER

Modern Issues

hen you think of Ireland, leprechauns, shamrocks, and Irish music might come to mind. You might imagine an ancient land of magic and myth. That Ireland does exist—but modern-day Ireland is also changing. It is no longer the homogeneous society it once was.

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Before Ireland joined the European Union (EU) in 1973, it was a very poor country, one of the poorest in Europe. Then, in the last quarter of the twentieth-century, Ireland’s economy skyrocketed. It became known as the Celtic Tiger, and people from other parts of the world flocked to Ireland, seeking jobs and economic opportunities. All that changed, though, in 2008, when the world's economy took a plunge that dragged Ireland along with it. The flood of new cultures and peoples to Ireland has changed the centuries-old traditional life that once existed there. New foods are sold and served. Other languages are spoken. In fact, there are now eight times as many people in Ireland who speak Polish as there are people who speak Gaelic, Ireland’s ancient language. In some counties, 10 percent of the population is Brazilian, and people from all around the world add their perspectives to the Irish outlook. A 2005 study by Foreign Policy magazine found that Ireland is the most globalized country in the world, partly because so many of Ireland’s residents are related to people in other parts of the world, and partly because Ireland does business with so many countries around the world. Experts predict that by 2030, one-quarter of Ireland’s population will be foreign-born. Hand-in-hand with Ireland’s current economic problems came still other changes. The society’s

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relaxed pace has disappeared. Most jobs once gave employees an hour and a half as a lunch break, during which time many people took a nap. Today, however, job pressure has risen, and most workers no longer have time to take any lunch break at all. Most jobs are located in urban areas, so many workers commute fairly long distances; in 2005, the Irish Examiner announced that most Irish workers are sleep deprived because of the long distances they drive each day to work. Ireland was once known as a very religious country, but that has changed as well. Many people don’t go to church, and in a recent survey of Irish people between fifteen and twenty-four years old, more than a third did not know the meaning of Easter. Some things in Ireland haven’t changed, though. The country still feels the ancient tension between Irish Catholics and English Protestants that it has been experiencing for centuries. Riots still break out between Catholic and Protestant teenagers, and bricks are thrown back and forth. Law enforcement says these incidents are so common that they’ve almost become a recreational activity. Many people are hopeful that these tensions will ease during the twenty-first century. Still, the past remains a part of Ireland, creating both challenges and resources for the modern nation.

The Formation of the European Union The EU is a confederation of European nations that continues to grow. All countries that enter the EU agree to follow common laws about foreign security policies. They also agree to cooperate on legal matters that go on within the EU. The European Council meets to discuss all international matters and make decisions about them. Each country’s own concerns and interests are important, though. And apart from legal and financial issues, the EU tries to uphold values such as peace and solidarity, human dignity, freedom, and equality. All member countries remain autonomous. This means that they generally keep their own laws and regulations. The EU becomes involved only if there is an international issue or if a member country has violated the principles of the union. The idea for a union among European nations was first mentioned after World War II. The war had devastated much of Europe, both physically and financially. In 1950, French foreign minister Robert Schuman suggested that France and West Germany combine their coal and steel industries under one authority. Both countries would have control over the industries. This would help them become more financially stable. It would also make war between the countries much more difficult. The idea was interesting to other European countries as well. In 1951, France, West Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Italy signed the Treaty of Paris, creating the European Coal and Steel Community. These six countries would become the core of the EU. In 1957, these same countries signed the Treaties of Rome, creating the European Economic Community. This combined their economies into a single European economy. In 1965, the Merger Treaty brought together a number of these treaty organizations. The organizations were joined under a common banner, known as the European Community. Finally, in 1992, the Maastricht Treaty was signed. This treaty defined the European Union. It gave a framework for expanding the EU’s political role, particularly in the area of foreign and security policy. It would also replace national currencies with the euro. The next year, the treaty went into effect. At that time, the member countries included the original six plus another six who had joined during the 1970s and ’80s. In the following years, the EU would take more steps to form a single market for its members. This would make joining the union even more of an advantage. Three more countries joined during the 1990s. Another twelve joined in the first decade of the twenty-first century. As of 2012, six countries were waiting to join the EU.

Chapter One—Modern Issues

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Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula and medieval ruins

2

Ireland’s History and Government

CHAPTER

reland’s history can be traced back to between 7000 and 6000 BCE. The country’s first inhabitants were hunter-gatherers. During the Stone Age, these people lived near the sea, where they were able to catch deer and wild boar. They also became skilled at using harpoons to hunt seals, and they ate the island’s plentiful plants and shellfish.

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Farming was introduced about 4000 BCE, and sheep and cattle were raised. These Stone Age farmers were the first to change Ireland’s landscape as they cleared large areas of forest to make room for farming. They also built cairns, many of which can still be seen on the Irish landscape.

was commonplace. Society was class based, with kings and aristocrats at the top. Below them were freemen. The freemen were farmers, and their ranking on the social ladder had nothing to do with wealth; some were wealthy, while others were very poor—but all were free. Making up the lowest social class were the slaves. Celts practiced polytheism, the worship of many gods. Their Dating Systems and Their Meaning priests were called druids. Eventually, monotheism was You might be accustomed to seeing dates expressed with the abbreintroduced into Ireland, and reliviations BC or AD, as in the year 1000 BC or the year AD 1900. For gion would play an even more centuries, this dating system has been the most common in the integral part in the country from Western world. However, since BC and AD are based on Christianity that point on. (BC stands for Before Christ and AD stands for anno Domini, Latin for “in the year of our Lord”), many people now prefer to use abbreviations that people from all religions can be comfortable using. The abbreviations BCE (meaning Before Common Era) and CE (meaning Common Era) mark time in the same way (for example, 1000 BC is the same year as 1000 BCE, and AD 1900 is the same year as 1900 CE), but BCE and CE do not have the same religious overtones as BC and AD.

The Celts The Celts from eastern Europe arrived in Ireland sometime between 500 and 300 BCE and would control Ireland for 1,000 years. Their influence in language and culture survives today in such places as Galway, Cork, and Kerry. Initially a warlike people, the Celts built stone forts across the country. The island was divided into small kingdoms, and fighting between them 16

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Christianity Comes to Ireland

Sometime between the third and fifth centuries, Christianity came to Ireland. How it arrived is not known with certainty, but it probably came about through trade with England and France. In 432, the future Saint Patrick arrived in Ireland. Originally from western England, Irish marauders kidnapped him when he was sixteen and took Patrick to Ireland to work as a slave herdsman. He escaped and returned to England after six years, where he stayed until he had a religious vision. In this vision, Patrick read a letter begging him to return to Ireland. He did, and stayed there until his death in 461.

Celtic beehive-shaped houses

Rock of Cashel, an ancient fortress

Patrick worked hard to build the Catholic married with the Irish and even accepted Church in Ireland, not an easy endeavor. Druids Christianity. often attacked him and his followers. He planned to base the Church in Ireland on the Shamrocks and Snakes Roman model, with bishops serving as its leaders, but his Although not the official symbol of Ireland (the Harp is), one of the most plan was not followed: the commonly associated symbols with Ireland is the shamrock. According to Irish church instead quickly legend, St. Patrick used the shamrock to teach the people of Ireland about changed to a system based on the Holy Trinity, with each leaf representing one of its members—the monasteries with abbots as Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. leaders. Nevertheless, Patrick As for the snakes—according to legend, St. Patrick rid Ireland of and his followers built the founsnakes. Ireland never had any, though. Most authorities today believe that dation for a 300-year “golden “snakes” referred to pagans. age” of the Irish church. Between 500 and 800 CE, the Church flourished in Ireland. Many monasterThe English Come ies were built all across Ireland. Ireland sent misto Ireland sionaries to other parts of Europe. Education and The church regained its power and glory during the arts thrived in the monasteries. One of the most famous art forms during this time was the making the eleventh and twelfth centuries. It was reorganof illuminated manuscripts. The best- ized into dioceses, and bishops, rather than known of these books is the Book of Kells, complet- abbots, became its leaders. However, Pope ed in the ninth century. Today, the book is part of Adrian IV was not happy with the Irish church. He wanted to bring it under the papacy. In 1155, the collection of Trinity College in Dublin. the pope gave King Henry II of England permisThe Church’s golden age ended with the sion to invade Ireland in order to expand the influarrival of the Vikings. In the late eighth century, the Vikings first attacked Ireland. They raided ence of the Roman Church. King Henry II had permission, but he did not monasteries, and they abducted women and chilimmediately act on it. Instead, in 1166, King dren to be slaves. But they also founded Ireland’s first towns—Dublin, Cork, Waxford, and Limerick. Tiernan O’Rourke forced Dermait MacMurrough, They were skilled craftspeople and cunning king of Leinster, to escape from Ireland. King traders. The Vikings were also the ones who gave MacMurrough pleaded with King Henry II for Ireland its name: Eire from the Gaelic and the help, and Henry gave him permission to recruit Viking word for land. Eventually, the Vikings inter- soldiers from within England. Richard FitzGilbert Chapter Two—Ireland’s History and Government

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de Clare (better known as Strongbow) agreed to help MacMurrough, on the condition that he could marry MacMurrough’s daughter and succeed him as king of Leinster. In 1170, Strongbow and his army captured Waterford and Dublin. He became king of Leinster when MacMurrough died, and King Henry II believed he was becoming too powerful. The king ordered all English soldiers to return to England by Easter 1171. In response, Strongbow agreed to submit to the king on the condition that he could retain Dublin, Waterford, and Wexford. King Henry came to Ireland in October 1171 and easily took Waterford, declaring it to be a royal city. The pope recognized him as Lord of Ireland. In the succeeding centuries, King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I would consolidate English power in Ireland. The Downfall of Catholicism In the early seventeenth century, King James confiscated much of Ulster, and between 1610 and 1613, large numbers of English and Scots moved onto the land taken from the native Irish. At first, newcomers to Ireland did not mix with the poor native Irish or the Old English Catholics, who rebelled in 1641. In 1642, the Anglo-Irish and the native Irish formed an alliance called the Confederation of Kilkenny. The confederation took over all Ireland except for Dublin, a few other small towns, and part of Ulster. Ireland was pretty much left alone during the English civil war, but at its end, the victorious 20

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Oliver Cromwell and the British Parliament wanted to turn Ireland into a Protestant country. Cromwell and his forces left a trail of massacre across the country. By 1651, all of Ireland was under English control. The English takeover meant harsh times for Catholics. In 1695, Catholics were forbidden from buying land, raising their children as Catholics, carrying firearms, and from entering the military forces or law. Though all bishops and priests were ordered to leave Ireland in 1697, many remained. In 1704, Catholic clergy remaining in Ireland were required to register and swear an oath of allegiance to the English king. In that year, a law was enacted requiring all members of the Irish Parliament and officeholders to be members of the Church of Ireland. In 1727, Catholics lost the right to vote. By the 1760s, the Catholics had had enough, and violence erupted. Beginning in 1778, the restrictions on Catholics were repealed. In 1823, Daniel O’Connell formed the Catholic Association to force the removal of the remaining restrictions on Catholics—those dealing with serving in Parliament and holding office. Six years later, the Catholic Emancipation Act overturned those laws. The Potato Famine When Sir Walter Raleigh reportedly brought the potato to Ireland in the sixteenth century, it quickly became an important part of the Irish diet. In the 1840s, the diet of much of the population of Ireland centered around this food. The Irish dependence on potatoes was so complete that when a potato blight

Celtic crosses are ancient reminders of Ireland’s Christian heritage.

Horse traders in Dingle

hit the country in 1845 and again in 1846 and 1847, the country was devastated. The blight lasted five years. Approximately one million people died during the years of the famine. Each year, starvation and illnesses such as cholera, typhus, and dysentery cost hundreds of thousands their lives. Many others chose to leave Ireland, many coming to the United States. The British government did not establish relief efforts in Ireland until 1847. This delay added fuel to the Irish desire for independence. Early Moves Toward Independence

Nine Famous Irishmen Nine members of the Young Ireland movement were captured, tried for and convicted of treason, and sentenced to death in 1848. When the judge asked at sentencing if any of the nine wanted to say anything, Thomas Meagher replied: My Lord, this is our first offence, but not our last. If you will be easy with us this once, we promise on our word as gentlemen to try and do better next time. And next time—we won’t be fools enough to get caught. Irritated, the judge sentenced them to death. Worldwide protests caused Queen Victoria to commute the sentence to exile in Australia. Almost thirty years later, it came to Queen Victoria’s attention that the newly elected prime minister of Australia—Charles Duffy—was one of those men she sent to Australia. On review, it was discovered that the others had also done quite well: Thomas Francis Meagher—Governor of Montana Terence McManus—Brigadier General, U.S. Army Patrick Donohue—Brigadier General, U.S. Army Richard O’Gorman, Governor General of Newfoundland Morris Lyne—Attorney General of Australia Thomas D’Arcy McGee—Member of Parliament, Montreal; Minister for Agriculture and President of Council, Dominion of Canada Michael Ireland—Attorney General of Australia (Lyne’s successor) John Mitchell—prominent New York politician

By 1842, it was obvious to some in Ireland that the country would not achieve its independence through peaceful means. In that year, Young Ireland was formed to campaign for Ireland’s independence, by whatever means necessary. In 1848, led by William Smith O’Brien, they fought with the Irish Constabulary in County Tipperary in the battle of the Widow McCormack’s cabbage patch. O’Brien was arrested and sentenced to death, but was sent instead to Tasmania.

The Fenian movement began in 1858, but an attempted uprising in England in 1867 failed. Although the Catholic Church banned them in 1870, their activities continued.

Chapter Two—Ireland’s History and Government

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Not all moves toward independence were violent. In 1870, Isaac Butt founded the Irish Home Government Association. The association’s goal was to achieve independence for Ireland through the British Parliament. If enough politicians in favor of Irish independence could be elected Members of Parliament (MPs), Ireland could win its sovereignty through peaceful, political means. Although Butt was successful and many MPs were elected, he was considered to be too moderate and he lost control of the association. In 1886, the first of the Irish Home Rule bills was introduced in Parliament, but was rejected in the House of Commons. A later one was defeated in the House of Lords. The influx of MPs supportive of Ireland did bring about some favorable changes. New land laws allowed thousands of tenant farmers to purchase the land they worked. The Gaelic League was formed in 1893, and Gaelic was made the official language of Ireland again. A Home Rule bill was finally accepted in 1914, but its implementation was put on hold until the end of World War I. While peaceful political movements toward independence were made, so were more violent tactics. Protestant opposition to Irish independence grew, and by the 1900s, Ireland appeared to be headed toward civil war. The Ulster Volunteer Force was formed in 1913, and southern nationalists formed the Irish Volunteers.

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Fighting for Independence Ireland knew that after the world war ended, it would have its independence. Some of the Irish Volunteers were willing to wait, but others were not. More than 100,000 broke away and called themselves the Irish National Volunteers. The Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB) was a secret—and powerful—organization in the early twentieth century. Many of its members sided with the Irish Volunteers. In 1915, the IRB formed a military council. An uprising was planned for Easter 1916, and the Irish Volunteers agreed to help. However, when the British Navy intercepted a German boat carrying weapons to Ireland to be used in the Easter Uprising, the volunteers changed their mind. The uprising was confined to Dublin and was destined to fail. Politicians were not left out of the fight for independence. In the December 1918 general elections, Sinn Fein won seventy-three seats. The new MPs took a stand, however, and refused to join the British Parliament. Instead, they established their own Parliament, the Dail Eirann, in Dublin. Despite this more peaceful political statement, violence was still evident. Just one month later, the Irish Volunteers renamed themselves the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and began a guerrilla war with the British. The Black and Tans, a group of former soldiers recruited by the British and sent to Ireland to assist its forces, fought a hard war

A Dingle street

The Good Friday Agreement

lem.” The Government of Ireland Act was passed in The establishment of the Republic of Ireland did not mean an end to probthe British Parliament in lems between the Protestants and the Catholics of Ireland. In Northern 1920. It stated that Ireland Ireland, the fighting continued to cost lives and money. Sometimes border would have two parliaareas of the Republic were brought into the battle. In addition, the Irish conments, one in the north and stitution called for the entire island to be part of the Republic, which did not one in the south, but sit well with many in Northern Ireland. answerable to the British But, after many years and many false starts, the Belfast Agreement (also Parliament. In the May known as the Good Friday Agreement) was signed in April 10, 1998. This 1921 election of members was perhaps the most significant step in trying to end the violence in to the parliament in south Northern Ireland. Citizens of both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, Sinn Fein won most Ireland overwhelmingly approved the agreement in separate referendums of the seats. But they again the following month. refused to sit in the new Among the provisions was the establishment of the North-South parliament; the Dail continMinisterial Council and the North-South Implementation Body to bring about ued to meet. cooperation between Northern Ireland and the Republic. The British-Irish In October 1921, the Dail Council would be established, with representatives from the governments of appointed five members to the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom, Scotland, negotiate with the British. The Wales, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Mann. The council would meet British prime minister to discuss issues of common concern. demanded that the represenPerhaps the most significant feature of the agreement was the revision tatives sign a treaty partitionof Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution of Ireland. Those articles stated that ing Ireland. On threat of war, the republic’s “national territory consists of the whole island of Ireland, its the delegates agreed. They islands and the territorial seas,” and that the constitution had jurisdiction returned home to Ireland to over the entire territory. find the country split over the treaty. Though the Dail approved the treaty in 1922, with the IRA. In May 1921, the IRA burned the some were willing to accept the agreement as a temCustoms House in Dublin. It wasn’t an easy conquest, however; five members of the IRA were porary fix, while others were vehemently killed, and eighty were captured. Two months opposed. Again war broke out, this time between the IRA and the National Army. This civil war lasted until later, the war ended. Simultaneously with the violence, the politi- May 1923. cians had been working to solve the “Irish prob26

European Union—Ireland

Conlficts between Catholics and Protestants in Ireland cause tensions in the country

The Ireland of the Early Twentieth Century Life in Ireland was not easy in the 1920s and 1930s. Unemployment was high, and living con-

ditions were overcrowded. People were still leaving the country in large numbers. Under the treaty, however, things started to get better. Between 1925 and 1929, the government created a plan, the Shannon Scheme, to bring hydro-

Chapter Two—Ireland’s History and Government

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Night view of Dublin, Ireland.

electricity to Irish towns. By 1943, Ireland’s Women Presidents all towns and most villages had electricity. To help reduce the Ireland’s seventh president was also its first woman president: Mary unemployment rate, the governRobinson was elected in 1990. Robinson was a strong leader who ment instituted a road-building prowas credited with revitalizing Ireland’s government. She left office in gram. It also assisted in the devel1997 to become the United Nation’s High Commissioner of Human opment of industry in the 1940s. Rights. In her place, the Irish people elected Mary McAleese, who Political movement toward was then elected again in 2004 for another seven-year term. independence continued as well McAleese was also a dynamic leader, who described her primary during the 1930s and 1940s. In goal for her leadership to be “building bridges”—between Northern 1937, a new constitution was writIreland and the Republic of Ireland, between Catholics and ten, making an elected president Protestants, between the Irish and the British, and between all people the head of state. Southern Ireland, who have differences, including gays and straights. the country known as “Irish Free State,” would now be Eire or Ireland. In 1948, after years of what seemed like endless violence and conflict, and the southern Republic of Ireland was able to Ireland (or at least the southern part of the island) move forward and build itself as a nation. was made a republic and was independent of Today, Ireland is a constitutional republic Britain at last. governed as a parliamentary democracy with an elected president serving as head of state. It is a highly developed country with an extremely Modern Ireland high standard of living. The country is also highly The Republic of Ireland was ready to take its ranked for press freedom, economic freedom, place in the world, but conflicts between North democracy, and political freedom. Besides being a and South, between Catholics and Protestants, member of the European Union, it is also a member continued to threaten its stability. These conflicts of the World Trade Organisation and the United were more intense in Northern Ireland, though, Nations.

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A street in Cork

3 CHAPTER

The Economy

reland’s long history of struggle leading to its independence was not favorable to economic development. Economic growth came slowly, but after many years of economic struggle, Ireland’s economy was one of the strongest in the world at the beginning of the twenty-first century.

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Community (EEC), the forerunner of the European Union (EU). Foreign countries began In 1949, the Industrial Development Authority investing in Ireland, bringing with them new jobs (IDA) was established to promote industrial- and new businesses. ization. The 1950s saw a rapid growth in This economic boon didn’t last, however, and Ireland’s economy. In the 1960s and 1970s, the the 1980s found the Irish economy on the skids. economy grew at an average of 4 percent per Unemployment had increased from 7 percent in year. The first Irish motorway and the first broad- 1979 to 17 percent in 1990. But then, in the cast by Irish television both occurred in 1962. In 1990s, the economic pendulum swung upward 1973, Ireland joined the European Economic again. The Irish economy flourished and became known as the “Celtic Tiger.” By 2000, unemployment was less than 4 percent. Quick Facts: The Economy Of Ireland The Irish economy was not immune to the worldwide ecoGross Domestic Product (GDP): US$181.9 billion (2011 est.) nomic slowdown of 2001, espeGDP per capita: US$39,500 (2011 est.) cially in high-tech exports, but it Industries: pharmaceuticals, chemicals, computer hardware and softcontinued to grow, although at a ware, food products, beverages and brewing; medical devices slower rate, until the recession Agriculture: beef, dairy products, barley, potatoes, wheat that hit the world in 2008. Export commodities: machinery and equipment, computers, chemiA recession is a period cals, medical devices, pharmaceuticals; food products, animal products when businesses stop growing. Export partners: US 23.2%, UK 15.4%, Belgium 14.3%, Germany Because businesses are not as 8.1%, France 5%, Switzerland 4% (2010) successful, there are fewer jobs, Import commodities: data processing equipment, other machinery so unemployment is higher. With and equipment, chemicals, petroleum and petroleum products, textiles, the world’s economy being so clothing intertwined, when businesses and Import partners: UK 32.1%, US 14.1%, Germany 7.7%, China banks start having problems in 6.4%, Netherlands 4.9% (2010) one nation, those problems can Currency: euro (EUR) quickly spread to other countries Currency exchange rate: US$1 = 0.7107 EUR (March, 2012) as well. That’s what happened in 2008. Ireland was the first counNote: All figures are from 2011 unless otherwise noted. try in the EU to officially enter the Source: www.cia.org, 2012. recession. From Weak to Strong

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Farming is important to Ireland’s economy.

Haystacks in the Wicklow Mountains

Before the recession, massive lending by banks had fueled a property boom in Ireland; when this collapsed—and lenders were unable to repay— the Irish banking system was plunged into crisis. The Irish economy underwent one of the deepest recessions in the EU, with its economy shrinking by 10 percent in 2009. In November 2010, Ireland and the EU agreed on a financial rescue package for the republic; the EU gave Ireland millions of dollars to help them rebuild their banks and businesses. By 2012, Ireland was still in recession, but its economy was slowly growing once more. Agriculture Agriculture has long played significant roles in Ireland’s economy. Small and medium-sized farms and fields still dominate the Irish landscape. Turnips, barley, potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat are the primary crops grown today. Beef and dairy products are also important to the Irish economy. As the Irish economy has developed, agriculture’s importance has lessened in the overall picture. Agriculture and agricultural-related industries employ only five percent of the population. Two percent of the gross domestic profit (GDP) is provided by agriculture and related businesses.

of the GDP and accounts for about 80 percent of the country’s exports. An estimated 20 percent of Ireland’s workforce is employed in industry. The service sector provides 70 percent of the GDP and employs about 76 percent of Ireland’s population. To develop Ireland’s industry, the government at first enacted protectionist policies. Their goal was to establish Irish-owned industries to serve the domestic market. Policies changed in the 1950s, when the benefits of free trade and foreign investment were realized. The United States, Britain, and Germany have been the largest investors. Industry has been concentrated in Dublin, but the Irish government hopes to encourage industrial development in other areas. Ireland’s primary industries are metals and engineering, food products, rail transportation equipment, ship construction and refurbishment, software, and tourism. The growth in the service sector has played an important role in the growth of Ireland’s economy in recent years. Principal service categories include educational and medical services, retail and wholesale distribution, public administration and defense, and the insurance, finance, and business service group. Because of the need to be near consumers, most of the growth in the service sector has occurred in urban areas such as Dublin.

Industrial and Service Sectors Tourism Industrial and the service sectors have surpassed agriculture in importance to the Irish economy. Today, industry makes up about 29 percent

In the years following World War II, tourism experienced significant growth. More than three milChapter Three—The Economy

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Many people in Ireland use the country’s public transportation system.

lion people visit Ireland yearly. Most of the tourists come from Great Britain, but increasing numbers come from the United States. A substantial number of Irish tourists travel within their own country. The relaxed atmosphere, friendly people, clean countryside, and attractive scenery are major tourist attractions. The country’s literary and historical features also draw tourists. Many people visit Ireland to discover their ancestry. The coastal areas see the most tourism, but increasing numbers of tourists are discovering the beauty of Ireland’s interior. 36

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Transportation The primary method of travel in Ireland is by private vehicle on roadways; there are 59,674 miles (96,036 kilometers) of highways, all paved, in Ireland. Public buses are available in some areas, but their paths through the countryside are often meandering. Unlike many European countries, Ireland’s road network was designed for a population larger than it currently has. As a result, traffic is light by European standards. The amount is increasing,

Road in the Connemara mountains of Ireland. There are almost 60 thousand miles of paved highways in the country.

Fishing is a traditional aspect of the Irish economy.

however, and there is congestion in the major urban areas and tourist attractions. The railway system was developed in the nineteenth century. Because of competition from road transportation, some branch lines closed, along with some main routes and smaller rail stations. Today, there are 2,011 miles (3,237 kilometers) of rail tracks. Dublin is the main destination for rail traffic. Seaports are important to Ireland’s economy, since most goods and many passengers go by sea. The main seaports are on the east and south coasts. Most traffic goes through Larne, Belfast, and Dublin. The primary international airports are at Dublin and Shannon. Flights are available to most major British cities and to mainland European countries. Transatlantic flights are routed through both airports. The growth of Ireland’s national airline, Aer Lingus, reflects the increase in air transport to and from Ireland. Aer Lingus carries more than nine million passengers yearly. Although Ireland’s economy is progressive and modern, complete with Internet access, much of the country’s culture continues to reflect its history and values. Immigrants have brought changes to the island nation, but its traditional culture can still be found, especially in rural areas.

Chapter Three—The Economy

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Cork is a hub for Irish culture and population.

4

Ireland’s People and Culture

CHAPTER

reland is a country of more than four million people. Although the land has historically become home to immigrants moving westward across the European continent, the Irish are primarily of Celtic origin.

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Men in Cork

Roman Catholicism is the official religion of the Republic of Ireland; more than 87 percent are Roman Catholic, but regular attendance at mass has declined, as has strict adherence to the church’s rules. Most of the seminaries have closed. The influence of the Roman Catholic 42

European Union—Ireland

Church on government has waned as well, as shown in the legalization of divorce; the first legal Irish divorce was obtained in 1997. Membership in the Church of Ireland, the second-largest religion, is also declining—most of its rural churches and some of those in urban areas

have closed—and declining memberhave expanded as well for adults who want to ship is a characteristic of Ireland’s return to school. Ninety-nine percent of Ireland’s already small Jewish population. The population age fifteen and older can read and only religions that have seen an write. expansion are Islam and born-again The Irish educational system is divided into Christian groups. These increases three levels. The first is primary school. Although reflect the characteristics of Ireland’s immiQuick Facts: The People of Ireland grant population. Education Education is important to the Irish; 90 percent of all children complete secondary education, and more than 55 percent attend third-level educational institutes. Though many schools are still church affiliated, the number of multidenominational and coeducational schools has increased in recent years. Parents can elect for their children to be taught in English, Gaelic, or other modern European languages. Parents also have a constitutional right to homeschool their children. All public schools are state funded. Educational opportunities

Population: 4,722,028 (July 2012 est.) Ethnic groups: Irish 87.4%, other white 7.5%, Asian 1.3%, black 1.1%, mixed 1.1%, unspecified 1.6% (2006 census) Age structure: 0–14 years: 21.1% 15–64 years: 67.3% 65 years and over: 11.6% (2011 est.) Population growth rate: 1.112% (2012 est.) Birth rate: 15.81 births/1,000 population (2012 est.) Death rate: 6.38 deaths/1,000 population (July 2012 est.) Migration rate: 1.69 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2012 est.) Infant mortality rate: 3.81 deaths/1,000 live births Life expectancy at birth: Total population: 80.32 years Males: 78.07 years Females: 82.69 years (2012 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.01 children born/woman (2012 est.) Religions: Roman Catholic 87.4%, Church of Ireland 2.9%, other Christian 1.9%, other 2.1%, unspecified 1.5%, none 4.2% (2006 census) Languages: English (official, the language generally used), Irish (Gaelic or Gaeilge) (official, spoken mainly in areas along the western coast) Literacy rate: 99% (2003 est.) Note: All figures are from 2011 unless otherwise noted. Source: www.cia.org, 2012.

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children are not required to attend school until they are age six, many start primary school at age four.

“Danny Boy”

number of points in addition to receiving a Leaving Certificate on completion of the second level. Students have a choice of attending universities, institutes of technology, colleges of education, and private colleges.

Almost everyone has heard the song “Danny Boy.” It’s played and sung, often badly, many times around St. Patrick’s Day. Bagpipes often accompany the tune at funerals, especially of firefighters. Ironically, however, many Irish immigrants never hear the song until they come to the United States. “Danny Boy” is one of more than one hundred songs with the same tune, “Londonderry Aire.” Frederic Edward Weatherly, an English lawyer, wrote the words, and as far as can be determined, he was never in Ireland. His first attempt included words and music, but it was unsuccessful. In 1912, his sister-in-law sent him the tune “Londonderry Aire,” and he noticed how well the melody and words went together: “Danny Boy” was born.

After completing grade 6, students advance to secondary school. Students are generally about age twelve and graduate at age seventeen or eighteen, after they complete two state exams. The secondary school year begins in September and runs through June. The secondary level includes secondary schools, vocational schools, and community or comprehensive schools. Most students attend secondary schools. Vocational and community or comprehensive schools offer academic and technical classes. Adults returning to school often attend community or comprehensive schools. If a student wants to attend a university—the third level—she will have to accumulate a certain 44

European Union—Ireland

Music

Music is a mainstay of Irish culture. Sing-a-longs in Irish pubs appear in many movies, and this is one tradition that exists in real life. Internationally known Irish singers include the Pogues, Elvis Costello, Sinéad O’Connor, and Enya. Irish tenors are legendary in opera. Some of the more recent ones include Ronan Tynan and Anthony Kearns. Bob Geldof, formerly of the Boom-town Rats, organized 1985’s Live Aid concert, as well as 2005’s Live 8 concert. Perhaps the best-known Irish music group is U2, led by Bono (Paul Hewson). Like Geldof, Bono has moved beyond music to become an activist. Literature

Although music is a strong element of Irish culture, perhaps Irish authors have made the greatest impact on the rest of the world. Oscar Wilde, George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, and Jonathan Swift are some of the writers who have influenced literature worldwide.

A rural home near Dingle

A bar near Cork

Some critics consider James Joyce to be the most potatoes top a lamb shepherd’s pie. Other root influential author of the twentieth century. Many vegetables such as carrots, leeks, and turnips are readers of his Ulysses come to Dublin to retrace the also important parts of the Irish diet. events of the main character's day. Contemporary Irish authors A Traditional Corned Beef and include J. P. Donleavy, Brendan Cabbage Dinner for St. Patrick’s Day Behan, and Roddy Doyle. Frank McCourt, author of Angela’s Ashes, his mother’s story of life in Well, if that’s what you eat to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, you should probIreland, was born in the United ably not celebrate it in Ireland. Salted beef would have been a luxury in States but moved to Ireland when times past. You’re more likely to find seafood than corned beef served in he was four. Irish homes on St. Patrick’s Day. Food and Drink Despite common misperceptions, the Irish diet centers on meat—beef, pork, and lamb. Food is hearty, laborer’s fare. Stews and other dishes that can be cooked all day are common in rural areas. Stews are often served with chunks of Irish soda bread. In early times, beef was a luxury seldom served except among the upper class. Lamb and pork were more likely found on the tables of average Irish families. Today, beef is less expensive and has become a major part of the Irish diet. From the time of the Celts first occupation of Ireland, oats made up a large proportion of the Irish diet. They continued to be an important food staple after potatoes came to Ireland. In time, however, potatoes replaced oats in the diet of many Irish. Recently, however, oats have made a comeback in the diets of health-conscious Irish. The Irish diet has not eliminated potatoes. They are often served as part of a stew. Mashed

Many Irish enjoy their stout, a type of beer. Whiskey is another popular spirit. There is also a small but growing wine industry. Tea is another popular beverage, generally served hot or at room temperature. Symbols and Legends Symbols and legends have been a part of Irish culture since the country began. Many, such as the leprechaun, are well known. Some others are not. Some symbols evolved through necessity. The Aran stitch pattern, perhaps the best known of the patterns for Irish knitted sweaters, developed generations ago on the Aran Islands at the mouth of Galway Bay. Life was hard for those who fished the cold and rough waters of the Atlantic. Each clan designed a unique knitting pattern based on the elements used in the work of the fishermen—cables representing ropes, basketweave representing the creel. The sweaters provided

Chapter Four—Ireland’s People and Culture

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A winding rural road in Ireland.

much-needed warmth for the fishermen. The pattern Leprechauns also provided a means of identification should a fishAlmost everyone has heard of leprechauns. The name leprechaun erman be killed and tradimay come from leath bhrogan, Irish for shoemaker or luacharma’n, tional forms of identification Irish for pygmy. The very old, very small leprechauns usually prove difficult. appear very intoxicated, generally from some kind of home brew. The Claddagh is anAccording to legends, these wee folk are the self-appointed other important symbol of guardians of a treasure left by the Danes as they invaded Ireland. Ireland. According to legThe leprechauns generally avoid humans, who they consider foolend, when Richard Joyes ish, flighty, and greedy. If a human happens to capture one of the (as he spelled Joyce) sailed leprechauns, he will promise great fortune if the human releases for the West Indies, he was him. captured by an Algerian Each leprechaun carries two leather pouches. In one there is a pirate and sold into slavmagical silver shilling. Every time the leprechaun spends it, the coin ery. His new master, a returns to the purse. The other bag holds a gold coin the lepgoldsmith, taught his craft rechaun uses to bribe himself out of difficult situations. Once the to Joyes. Joyes’s skill coin is given, however, it turns to leaves or ashes. earned him the respect of Leprechauns are seldom—if ever—seen outside Ireland. his master. After King However, thanks to the Internet, you can keep an eye out for one: William III ascended to www.irelandseye.com/leprechaun/leprechaun.html. Just rememthe English throne, he sent ber to report any sightings to the Webmaster. an ambassador to Algiers to demand the immediate release of all British subjects. When his master learned that successful jeweler. In most versions of the legend, Joyes was to be released, he offered his most famous creation—the Claddagh ring— the Irishman the hand of his only was designed for the woman he left behind when daughter in hope that he might stay. he was captured. The heart symbolizes love; the Richard declined, and shortly aftercrown, loyalty; and the hands, friendship. Some ward he returned to the small village of Joyes’s rings, bearing his jeweler’s mark, still of Claddagh, where he became a exist.

Chapter Four—Ireland’s People and Culture

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View of Cork

5 CHAPTER

Looking to the Future

reland has faced tremendous problems during the course of its long history, but ultimately, it has always been able to overcome any challenge it has faced. Modern Ireland still has the same determination as it faces the future. The Irish government is progressive in a number of ways, working to build a better future for its nation.

I

passed that recognized civil partnerships between The Travelers are a group of people in Ireland who have their own lansame-sex couples. guage and culture. Instead of settling down in one place, they wander Surveys of Irish peofrom place to place, similar to the Roma (or Gypsy) people who live in ple have found that other parts of Europe. They are sometimes referred to as Tinkers. Although most of them would people from outside the group have joined the Travelers in modern times like their governand become absorbed, the Travelers have existed in Ireland since as early ment to go even furas the fifth century. ther in extending Irish Travelers face many problems. They often do not have access to rights to homothe same educational and health opportunities as the rest of the populasexuals: 73 percent tion. Most Traveler children do not attend school, and a 2007 report of people believe found that more than half of all Travelers will not live past thirty-nine years. same-sex couples Discrimination from the rest of the population is probably the greatest should be allowed problem Travelers face. to marry, while 60 percent believe that same-sex couples should be allowed Ireland has faced tremendous problems during the to adopt children. course of its long history, but ultimately, it has always been able to overcome any challenge it The Environment has faced. Modern Ireland still has the same determination as it faces the future. The Irish gov- The Irish are committed to the future ernment is progressive in a number of ways, work- of the entire planet as well as their ing to build a better future for its nation. nation. They are doing their part to

Who Are the Irish Travelers?

Human Rights Discrimination based on age, gender, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, religion, race, or membership in the Travelers is illegal in Ireland. Ireland ranks high among countries with the most gender equality. The law that once outlawed homosexual acts was repealed in 1993, and in 2010, a law was 52

European Union—Ireland

confront the world’s environmental challenges and set an example for the other nations of the world. In 2002, Ireland became the first country in the world to introduce an environmental levy for plastic shopping bags, encouraging people to reuse bags instead of using so much plastic. Seven years later, in 2009, Ireland took another big step and became the first country in the world to outlaw

Ireland has passed a law that recognizes civil partnerships between homosexual couples.

incandescent light bulbs, forcing consumers to use more efficient electric lights instead. Ireland’s Environment Minister, John Gormley, said, “These [incandescent] bulbs use technology invented during the age of the steam engine. By getting rid of

these bulbs we will save 700,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year.” The Irish government has made a commitment to have a third of the nation’s electricity generated from renewable sources by 2020.

Chapter Five—Looking to the Future

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Ireland is working to build more wind turbines as a source of renewable energy.

Peat power stations and wind energy are both alternative energy sources in which Ireland is investing. The Economy Although Ireland’s economy seems to have pulled out of the recession, many Irish fear that their nation has become too dependent on the EU for its financial stability. The EU’s bailout package for Ireland means that Ireland owes the equivalent of billions of dollars to the EU. Irish banks and the Irish government must regain their independence and strength before Ireland’s economic future can be truly secure. Ireland and Britain Although the Republic of Ireland is officially part of Great Britain, the old tensions between Ireland and England still exist. To help strength-

en the fragile peace that exists between the two countries, Queen Elizabeth visited Ireland in 2011, the first time a British monarch had visited Ireland in a century. On the first day of the Queen’s trip, violence broke out as a few hundred rioters threw bricks, fireworks, and full soda cans at police. The Irish people as a whole, however, condemned the rioters. They were impressed by the respect the Queen showed them, and after her visit, many felt more optimistic about their nation’s future. One Irish woman admitted to Time magazine that although she had never been a “fan of the Queen of England,” she was touched by the Queen’s visit. “You have to let bygones be bygones,” the woman said. “There’s too much looking back. You have to go forward.” Despite the many challenges it faces in the twenty-first century, Ireland is determined to move strongly into the future.

Chapter Five—Looking to the Future

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Time Line 7000–6000 BCE 4000 BCE 500–300 BCE Third and fifth centuries 432 CE 500–800 1155 1610–1613 1641 1642 1695 1697 1704

1727 1778 1823 1845 1870

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CE

Ireland’s first inhabitants arrive. Farming is introduced. Celts from eastern Europe arrive in Ireland. Christianity comes to Ireland. The future Saint Patrick arrives in Ireland. The Church flourishes in Ireland. Pope Adrian IV gives King Henry II of England permission to invade Ireland in order to expand the influence of the Roman Church. Large numbers of English and Scots move onto land taken from the native Irish. Old English Catholics rebel. The Anglo-Irish and the native Irish form an alliance called the Confederation of Kilkenny. Catholics are forbidden to buy land, raise their children as Catholics, carry firearms, or enter the military forces or law. All bishops and priests are ordered to leave Ireland. Catholic clergy remaining in Ireland are required to register and swear an oath of allegiance to the English king; a law is passed requiring all members of the Irish Parliament and officeholders to be members of the Church of Ireland. Catholics lose the right to vote. The restrictions on Catholics are repealed. Daniel O’Connell forms the Catholic Association to force the removal of the remaining restrictions on Catholics. A potato blight hits the country; it lasts for five years. Isaac Butt founds the Irish Home Government Association.

1886 1893 1920 1922 1937 1948 1949 1973 1990 April 10, 1998 1997 2002

January 2004 2008 2009 2010 2011

The first Irish Home Rule bill is introduced in Parliament. The Gaelic League is formed. The British Parliament passes the Government of Ireland Act. Civil war breaks out; it ends in May 1923. A new constitution is written. The southern part of the island of Ireland receives its independence from Britain. The Industrial Development Authority (IDA) is established to promote industrialization. Ireland joins the European Economic Community (EEC), the forerunner of the European Union (EU). Mary Robinson is the first woman to be elected president of Ireland. The Good Friday Agreement is signed. The first legal Irish divorce is obtained. Mary McAleese is elected president of the Republic of Ireland. Ireland becomes the last EU member state to approve expansion plans, which extends membership offers to Eastern European countries. Ireland places a levy on plastic bags. Ireland begins its six-month turn at the presidency of the EU. Ireland, along with the rest of the world, enters a period of recession. Ireland outlaws incandescent light bulbs. A law is passed in Ireland recognizing civil partnerships between homosexuals. Ireland begins to come out of the recession. Queen Elizabeth visits Ireland, the first English monarch to visit Ireland in a century.

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Find Out More In Books

Cronin, Mike. History of Ireland. New York: St. Martin’s Press, 2000. Daly, Ita. Irish Myths and Legends. Oxford, U.K.: Oxford University Press, 2001. Foster, Brett. James Joyce. Langhorne, Pa.: Chelsea House, 2003. Friedman, Lita. Mary Robinson: Fighter for Human Rights. Greensboro, N.C.: Avisson Press, 2004. Moloney, Mick. Far from the Shamrock Shore: The Story of Irish-American Immigration Through Song. New York: Crown, 2002.

On the Internet

History and Geography www.irelandstory.com www.irelandseye.com/aarticles/history/events/index.shtm Economic and Political Information www.theodora.com/wfbcurrent/ireland/index.html Culture and Festivals www.irelandseye.com www.emmedici.com/journeys/eire/cultura/ecultura.htm

Publisher’s note: The websites listed on this page were active at the time of publication. The publisher is not responsible for websites that have changed their addresses or discontinued operation since the date of publication. The publisher will review and update the website list upon each reprint.

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Glossary aristocrats: Members of a country’s highest social class.

emissions: Chemicals and particles that are sent into the air.

ascended: Assumed a position of power.

Gaelic: Ancient language spoken in Ireland and Scotland before English.

cairns: Piles of stones used as markers. Celts: Members of an ancient Indo-European people who lived in central and western Europe in pre-Roman times. clan: A group of families related through a common ancestor or marriage. constitutional: Have an established set of rules that govern the nation. creel: A basket designed to hold fish. dioceses: Districts under the authority of bishops. discrimination: Unfair and unequal treatment of people based on their race, culture, religion, sex, appearance, or some other quality.

globalized: Made worldwide in scope. gross domestic product (GDP): The total value of all goods and services produced in a country in a year, minus net income from investments in other countries. guerrilla: A member of an irregular paramilitary unit, usually with some political objective. homogeneous: All the same, alike. hunters-gathers: Members of a primitive society that gets its foods directly from nature by foraging and hunting. illuminated manuscripts: A manuscript in which colorful decorations or illustrations are added to the text.

economy: The wealth and resources of a country.

industrialization: The process by which a country’s economy comes to depend more on businesses than farming.

emancipation: The process or act of freeing someone.

levy: A tax or fee.

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marauders: Those who wander around carrying out violent attacks in order to steal.

progressive: In favor of social reform and new ideas.

monotheism: Belief in one god.

renewable: Having to do with energy that comes from sources that are naturally replenished, such as sunlight, wind, and water.

multidenominational: Made up of different religious groups. papacy: A pope’s authority. parliamentary democracy: A system of government where the people exercise their political power by electing representatives to parliament to make laws. A parliament is a government body in which the ministers of the executive branch are drawn from the legislature and are accountable to that body, so that the executive and legislative branches are intertwined. peat: A brown, soil-like material that comes from bogs. It’s made of partly decomposed vegetable matter and can be dried and burned as fuel. property boom: A period of growth in real estate sales. protectionist: A system of duties on imports into a country in order to protect domestic industries.

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repealed: Made a law no longer effective. republic: A form of government in which people elect representatives to exercise power for them. service sectors: Businesses who sell services rather than goods. sovereignty: The right to self-government free from outside interference. stout: A dark, strong beer. vehemently: With extreme conviction. vocational: Relating to job or career skills.

Index agriculture 23, 32, 35 Catholic 12, 19, 20, 23, 26, 29, 42, 43 Celts 16, 47 Connemara 37 Cork 16, 19 dating systems 16 discrimination 52 Dublin 19, 20, 24, 26, 35, 39, 47 economy 12, 31–39, 55 education 19, 35, 43 the English 19, 20, 49 European Union (EU) 12, 13, 29, 32 famous Irishmen 23 Fenian movement 23 food and drink 32, 35, 47 Galway 16, 47 globalize 12 Good Friday Agreement 26 Gypsy 52

independence 23, 24, 29, 31, 55 industry 29, 35, 47 Irish Republican Army (IRA) 24, 26 literature 44, 47 music 11, 44 potato famine 20, 23 Protestant 12, 20, 24, 29, 26, 29 Renewable 55 Roma 52 Saint Patrick 16 service sector 35 Stone Age 15, 16 symbols and legends 47–49 tourism 32, 35, 36 transportation 36, 39 Vikings 19

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Picture Credits All photos are taken from Corel image collections, except: Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg Pg

10 27 28 36 37 53 54

© © © © © © ©

Pavel Losevsky - Fotolia.com Gail Johnson - Fotolia.com Bart Kowski - Fotolia.com Steeve ROCHE - Fotolia.com Patryk Kosmider - Fotolia.com Felix Mizioznikov - Fotolia.com Rafa Irusta - Fotolia.com

To the best knowledge of the publisher, all other images are in the public domain. If any image has been inadvertently uncredited, please notify Harding House Publishing Services, Vestal, New York 13850, so that rectification can be made for future printings.

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About the Authors Ida Walker is a graduate of the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls. She did graduate work at Syracuse University in New York. Currently, she lives and works in Upstate New York. She is interested in history and learning about new places. Shaina Carmel Indovino is a writer and illustrator living in Nesconset, New York. She graduated from Binghamton University, where she received degrees in sociology and English. Shaina has enjoyed the opportunity to apply both of her fields of study to her writing and she hopes readers will benefit from taking a look at the countries of the world through more than one perspective.

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About the Series Consultant Ambassador John Bruton served as Irish Prime Minister from 1994 until 1997. As prime minister, he helped turn Ireland’s economy into one of the fastest-growing in the world. He was also involved in the Northern Ireland Peace Process, which led to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement. During his tenure as Ireland’s prime minister, he also presided over the European Union presidency in 1996 and helped finalize the Stability and Growth Pact, which governs management of the euro. Before being named the European Commission Head of Delegation in the United States, he was a member of the convention that drafted the European Constitution, signed October 29, 2004.

The European Commission Delegation to the United States represents the interests of the European Union as a whole, much as ambassadors represent their countries’ interests to the U.S. government. Matters coming under European Commission authority are negotiated between the commission and the U.S. administration.

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