Overview of Republic of Ireland

Profile

Ireland possesses a unique history fusing Celtic culture, Christian heritage, and modern English-speaking culture. High-tech and service industries that boomed during the Celtic Tiger era still account for most of GDP, with per capita income among the world's highest. Its verdant pastures and temperate maritime climate have earned it the nickname "Emerald Isle," nurturing diverse culture in literature, music, and sports.

Official name: Ireland
Common name: Republic of Ireland
Numeric code: 372
Alpha-3 code: IRL
Alpha-2 code: IE
Population: 5.19 million (2022)
Population density: Approx. 77 people/km2
Primary languages: Irish, English
Major religions: Catholic Church, Church of Ireland, Other Protestant
National anthem: Amhrán na bhFiann (The Soldier's Song)
Calling code: +353
Internet TLD: .ie

History

Celtic society → Norman rule → British annexation, achieving dominion status in 1922 and becoming a republic in 1949.

After Saint Patrick's introduction of Christianity in the 5th century, the island became a center of monastic culture. The Norman and English advances from the 12th century clashed with Gaelic society, leading to land confiscations and the Great Famine in the 17th–19th centuries. Following late 19th-century national movements, the Easter Rising in 1916, the War of Independence (1919–21), and the Civil War (1922–23) ensued. The 1937 Constitution was enacted, and full republican status was achieved in 1949. Ireland joined the EC in 1973, and the Belfast Agreement in 1998 brought peace to the Northern Ireland conflict.

Geography & climate

Western coast with sea cliffs, central flat limestone plain, surrounded by ring of low mountains.

Temperate oceanic climate

Area: Europe / 70273 km²
Capital: Dublin
Largest city: Dublin
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lough Corrib, Lough Derg, Lough Leane
Bordering countries: United Kingdom (Northern Ireland)

Natural resources

Peat, Natural gas, Zinc ore, Lead ore, Limestone, Wind power, Salmon, Grassland, Fresh water, Scenic tourism resources

Politics

Government: Parliamentary republic

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): 5330 hundred million dollars (2023)

GDP (PPP): 6680 hundred million dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Irish, English

Time zone: Irish Standard Time (IST), Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Irish Celtic, Anglo-Irish, Polish, Lithuanian, Nigerian, Traveller (nomadic people)

Life expectancy

81.8 years

Literacy rate

99%

National sports

Gaelic Football, Hurling, Soccer, Rugby Union, Horse Racing, Golf