Ireland

Ireland (Irish: Éire) is a small island nation in northwestern Europe. It is the third-largest and second-most populous island on Earth, with an area of 84,421 km² (32,595 sq mi). The capital and largest city is Dublin. Ireland has over 6 million inhabitants who are primarily Irish people of Celtic descent. English is the official language and Gaelic languages also have constitutional status.

The earliest evidence for human activity in Ireland dates back to 10,500 BCE when hunter-gatherers lived there during the Mesolithic period; this was followed by Neolithic farming communities from around 4000 BCE until about 500 CE. During ancient times it was known as Hibernia or “land of winter” due to its cooler climate compared to other parts of Europe at that time. In 432 AD St Patrick brought Christianity to Ireland which eventually became dominant religion there after centuries of struggle between paganism and Roman Catholicism.

By 1171 most parts were under Norman control while some areas stayed independent until early 16th century when Henry VIII declared himself king over all Irish lands through his 1541 Acts of Supremacy & Submission making them part British kingdom thus beginning what later would be called Great Famine – period marked by population decline caused mainly by crop failures leading up death millions due starvation hunger related diseases . By 1922 majority Irish had gained independence although six counties remained part United Kingdom form Northern Island still today . Its subsequent history has been turbulent with civil wars political unrest economic depression two major migrations – one outwards 20th century another inward since late 90’s transforming into modern industrialized society becoming full member European Union 2004 having joined euro currency 2008 .

Today Republic Ireland consists four provinces Donegal Ulster Leinster Connacht , while remaining six counties considered separate entity within UK being located northern half island collectively known North Island divided Province Antrim Down Tyrone Armagh Derry Londonderry respectively both sharing same land border across middle length width islands except few kilometers separating Belfast City Council NI Ballyshannon County Donegal ROI along River Erne estuary mouth near sea level point meeting Atlantic Ocean westward coastlines eastwardly touching Bay Britain northbound side flowing south past Shannon Estuary towards Cork Galway Limerick cities other townships vicinity before finally reaching conclusion epic journey toward ocean again southeastern region alongside Wexford Waterford Kilkenny Carlow Tipperary etcetera forming main contributing factors natural beauty found here too many travelers come escape hustle bustle everyday lives explore vast landscapes rolling green hills stunning cliffs rugged coastline majestic mountains alike so abundant these days even more popular than ever before thanks increased infrastructure developments recent years allowing easier access remote locations tourist attractions great outdoors now know love visit each year adding further value culture overall prosperity country whole blessed be Emerald Isle ours forevermore indeed!