Posted by administrator on Wednesday 22 January 2025 at 09:01
A very interesting article to read, sent to us by one of the Dunmanway Scouts who is very interested in Geneaology.It is wonderful to see the younger generations showing such interest in our History.
Please click the link below to continure reading.
Exploring Ireland and Your Irish Heritage | IDC
Ireland, an island nation in the North Atlantic, is known for its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and complex history. It covers most of the island of Ireland, with the northeastern part forming Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom.
Ireland’s geography is characterized by rolling green hills, rugged coastal cliffs, and winding rivers. Notable mountain ranges include the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and the Wicklow Mountains, while the River Shannon stands as Ireland’s longest river. The temperate maritime climate brings mild winters and cool summers, supporting the lush vegetation that gives Ireland its nickname, the Emerald Isle.
Ireland’s history has been shaped by waves of settlement, invasion, and political change. Celtic tribes arrived around 500 B.C.E., bringing their language and traditions, which remain central to Irish identity. In the 12th century, the Anglo-Norman invasion began centuries of English influence and conflict. Over the centuries, Ireland endured struggles over its land, religion, and national identity, culminating in the 1921 Partition of Ireland, when the island was divided into Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland. Northern Ireland became part of the U.K., while Southern Ireland became the Irish Free State; in 1937, it would be succeeded by the independent republic of Ireland.
Irish culture is celebrated worldwide, particularly through its music, dance, literature, and folklore. St. Patrick’s Day on March 17 honors Ireland’s patron saint and is recognized globally as a celebration of Irish heritage. Ireland also reflects its national pride through its language. Irish, one of the oldest European languages, was the dominant language in Ireland before the 18th century, when the British began actively working to supplant the local language with their own. By 1911, fewer than 17,000 people still spoke Irish, but that number has grown significantly since then, and today, it’s one of the two official languages of Ireland, taught in schools across the country and embraced by many as a key part of Irish heritage.
Ireland has produced many literary giants, including James Joyce, W.B. Yeats, Samuel Beckett, and Seamus Heaney. Its folklore is filled with enchanting tales of leprechauns, fairies, and ancient heroes, reflecting a deep-rooted belief in magic as a part of nature. And today, Ireland’s cultural legacy continues to influence art, music, and literature around the globe, blending ancient traditions with modern creativity.
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