Ireland is an incredible country to explore. Its history spans millennia of Viking raiders and conflict between cultures – not to mention the Great Famine that nearly killed millions.
Irish literature boasts an expansive legacy, from Yeats’ lyrical poetry and James Joyce’s stream-of-consciousness prose, through to Oscar Wilde’s dapper humor and contemporary writers such as Seamus Heaney who keep this tradition alive.
History
Ireland boasts a long and rich history despite its small size. The culture of Ireland has been formed over centuries by various groups who have lived here – from prehistoric Celts to Saint Patrick’s time and beyond. There have been several wars and rebellions on its soil as well as Northern Ireland’s Troubles that continue today.
Irish agriculture produces many agricultural products including cereals, meat and dairy products. Ireland was traditionally rural-based for much of its history and developed around this economic model. Ireland is well known for producing some of the finest writers such as W. B. Yeats’ poetry and James Joyce’s Ulysses to Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray and The Importance of Being Earnest which are among the finest works ever written in Irish literature.
At the beginning of the 20th century, a political movement emerged advocating for Ireland to become independent from Britain. De Valera led this initiative and eventually the Anglo-Irish Treaty created an independent dominion under British crown that featured full internal self-government rights; Northern Ireland still remains part of United Kingdom.
Irish governments originally pursued protectionist policies with an aim of developing domestic manufacturing industries for domestic consumption. From the late 1950s onward, however, their focus shifted toward free trade and export-focused industries.
Ireland subsequently developed a method for producing electricity using natural resources like wind, water and peat to harness electricity production. Now with an extensive power station network powered by natural gas generation of electricity.
Irish economic crisis of the late 80s and 90s witnessed a sharp increase in unemployment and decline in GDP, yet recovered to become a model in overcoming an economic downturn and re-establishing growth. Ireland is currently a member of the European Union; and, recently, in an unprecedented move by Brussels, they ordered them to recover up to 13bn euros from Apple as back taxes as its tax exemptions are considered illegal state aid.
Culture
Irish culture is widely celebrated and encompasses art, music, language, literature and folklore. Many Irish people also embrace modern work cultures that promote flexibility and teamwork; their sense of humor often manifests through phrases like “top o’ the mornin'” or “eejit” (pronounced eh-juht).
Irish business culture is well known for its hospitality and friendliness. Irish people prize building relationships and spend considerable time getting acquainted with potential customers and business partners. Irish culture also stresses egalitarianism over hierarchies for optimal success in business transactions.
Ireland has long been known for its literary legacy, producing some of history’s most significant writers such as Oscar Wilde and James Joyce’s Ulysses and Finnegan’s Wake as well as Seamus Heaney’s poetic verse – leaving an indelible mark on world culture.
Celtic knots, representing eternal bonds of loyalty, friendship and faith are a common motif in Irish art from both ancient to modern. Contemporary Irish artists are at the forefront of technological innovations while incorporating elements such as lush countrysides and turbulent histories into their work.
Irish family culture was historically heavily shaped by religion and gender roles were structured according to male dominance or female subordination. Over time however, these traditions have begun to shift as Ireland has transformed, and today there is an increase in egalitarianism within family units.
Irish are known for their drinking culture; however, they also take great pride in supporting their sports teams and living a healthy lifestyle, which can be seen through activities like golfing, horseback riding and surfing. Furthermore, Irish people possess great senses of humor that enjoy sharing stories and laughter with one another.
Irish people appreciate good food and drink, evidenced by the abundance of pubs and restaurants throughout their homeland. Irish expatriates make every effort to remain connected to their family back home by visiting as often as possible when overseas.
Sports
Ireland is an enthusiastic sports-mad nation, especially when it comes to its native Gaelic games of football (soccer) and hurling. These sportsy pursuits are beloved among both amateurs and professionals, drawing large crowds for home matches played by national teams of each sport.
Irish passions extend far beyond simply soccer; with some of the world’s finest courses and an abundance of top Irish players enjoying success on an international stage. Tennis, with numerous clubs and events to choose from, as well as swimming and athletics being highly regarded sports here. Furthermore, horse racing events like Galway Races and Dublin Horse Show draw huge crowds and great excitement, while showjumping and dressage sports such as Eddie Macken represent Ireland’s proud equestrian legacy.
Soccer is another wildly popular activity in Japan, and both men’s and women’s national teams boast impressive international standing. Currently ranked 34th worldwide, their counterparts in ranked just outside the top thirty.
Volleyball has quickly grown in popularity over recent years, both within schools and clubs, offering opportunities to join this exhilarating game of high energy action and skill. Plus it can be social too – teams often meet after matches for drinks and discussion!
Cycling is another immensely popular activity in Ireland, both recreationally and professionally, with both groups of cyclists appreciating Ireland’s varied terrain and well-maintained road network. Assault courses such as Tough Mudder or the Toughest Mucker provide exhilarating physical challenges combined with team camaraderie not seen in regular road racing events.
Irish athletes have long participated in the Olympic Games, with notable successes by athletes from both Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland athletes over time. One notable instance occurred at 1928 Olympic Games when Pat O’Callaghan from Ireland won gold for Ireland by throwing more than 16 feet further than his nearest competitors from Sweden and England combined in men’s hammer throw competition.
Movies
There have been a multitude of movies shot or set in Ireland. Films that depict action occurring within specific locations differ from those simply shot there, with popular Irish actors like Colin Farrell, Cillian Murphy and Saoirse Ronan making appearances.
Irish cinema is home to an abundance of comedies, dramas and action movies that cover real events – some even drawn directly from true tales – or are adapted from books or literary works, making for more engaging viewing. They make ideal movies for family outings or date nights!
“Black 47” is an exciting drama which follows an Irish Ranger back home after serving with the British army abroad. Based on true events from Guildford pub bombings that claimed four off-duty British soldiers and one civilian life, the film stars Peter Mullan as an investigating police officer trying to bring justice into this case.
Irish film “The Magdalene Sisters”, directed by Peter Mullan and featuring Dorothy-Jane Noone and Dorothy Duffy as its leads, is another worthy watch. Based on true events surrounding three teenage girls who were sent to a Magdalene Asylum. The movie won an Academy Award nomination in 2005.
This film combines an underdog story with coming-of-age narrative and musical elements to great success in Ireland and received multiple award nominations. It stars an incredible cast including Colm Feore, Eamonn Kelly and Sam Neill and is sure to delight audiences worldwide.
Mise Eire is a biographical film released in 2016 that chronicles events leading up to, during, and following the 1916 Easter Rising as well as its aftereffects. A must-watch for anyone interested in Irish history; powerful yet emotional; it will move you.