A Brief History of Ireland

The story of Ireland has been wrapped in mythology and legend; it is the history of courage, betrayal, and struggle. Since its very origins, the island has become the home for a successive series of invaders--the Celts, Christians, Vikings, and Normans. And despite deprivation, desperation, and suppression, Ireland has developed an unwavering sense of purpose and place, and has inspired some of the finest literature in any era from the intricateBook of Kellsto Joyce'sUlysses. This book celebrates Ireland's beauty and resiliency.

Richard Killeen is a historian and the editorial director of an Irish publishing company. He has written a number of books on Ireland’s past including A Short History of the 1916 Rising and The Concise History of Modern Ireland.