"A Short History of Ireland stands out for its brevity, but also for its accessibility. . . . A solid introduction not only to the key events and themes of Irish history, but also to the processes of that history, too."--Seán Hewitt, Irish Times
A concise history of Ireland from the Protestant Reformation to the present day - newly revised and expanded
In this compact and accessible account, John Gibney traces five centuries of Irish history. He explores major events and key themes, including the Cromwellian conquest, the Great Famine, and the struggle for independence. Wide-ranging and brisk, engaging and informative, this is essential reading for anyone interested in Ireland's complex past.
"An excellent primer on Ireland and its relations with its neighbour, written in a tone of rationality that draws a line under the mistakes of the earlier centuries."--Simon Heffer, Daily Telegraph
"In this crowded field, what sets John Gibney's work of synthesis apart is its skilful combination of readability and, despite its modest length, breadth."--Cormac ó Gráda, BBC History
"Few books distil Ireland's complex past with the clarity and balance of Gibney's history of Ireland."--Niamh Walsh, Telegraph
John Gibney completed his doctorate at Trinity College Dublin. He is the author of a number of books including The Shadow of a Year: The 1641 Rebellion in Irish History and Memory.