Ireland

Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic, comprising the westernmost of the British Isles. It is divided politically into two entities: the sovereign Republic of Ireland, which covers about five-sixths of the island, and Northern Ireland, a constituent part of the United Kingdom occupying the remaining six counties in the northeast. The capital and largest city of the Republic is Dublin; the capital of Northern Ireland is Belfast.

Geography and climate: The island has rolling low mountains, rivers such as the Shannon, and a rugged coastline on its western seaboard. The climate is temperate and maritime, with mild winters and cool summers and abundant rainfall that sustains extensive green countryside.

Politics and economy: The Republic of Ireland is a parliamentary democracy and a member of the European Union, using the euro. It has a president as head of state and a taoiseach as head of government. Northern Ireland remains part of the United Kingdom and uses the pound sterling. The economy is diversified, with strong services sectors, manufacturing, and agriculture, and tourism is important.

History and culture: Ireland has ancient Celtic roots, followed by Christianization in the early medieval period and centuries of English rule. The island was partitioned in the 20th century, with independence for most of the island in 1922 and the Republic declared in 1949. Irish culture is notable in literature, music, sport, and Gaelic games. Official languages are Irish and English, with Irish recognized as a national language in the Republic.