<DIV><P style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Irish history has been dominated by a succession of settlers, traders, invaders, soldiers, and colonizers. Fittingly, the arrival of Patrick in the 5th century?arguably one of history's most important settler?is the starting point for this concise and accessible account of Irish history. Topics addressed include the arrival of Christianity and its role in integrating Ireland more firmly with Europe and abetting the emergence of a golden age of Irish scholarship; the Anglo-Normans and the origins of Ireland's long, complex, and often tortuous relationship with England; and the economic, financial, and cultural position of the Republic of Ireland in the 21st century. The key developments and personalities of Irish history are all addressed, and challenges to the dominant interpretation of events such as Cromwell's invasion, the Plantation of Ulster, the Great Famine, and Nationalism are presented.</p></DIV>