From the first prehistoric inhabitants of the island to the Windsor Framework for Northern Ireland, this uniquely concise account of Ireland and its people reveals how modern Irish society is the product of a rich, multivalent history.

Combining factual information with a critical approach, Coohill covers all the key events, including the Great Famine, Home Rule, the Good Friday Agreement and Brexit. Newly revised and updated, this highly accessible and balanced account will continue to provide a valuable resource to all those wishing to acquaint themselves further with the complex history of Ireland and Irish people.

‘A brisk and clear introduction to Irish history.’

‘Hands down the best textbook on the market.’

'With this new edition of his Ireland: A Short History, Joseph Coohill performs an incredible service—he provides a narrative history of Ireland from prehistory through the early twenty-first century that is accessible without being reduced to caricature. It offers general readers an excellent introduction to Irish history. It should earn a place of honor on the shelves of those who love Ireland and want to know more about its rich past. ' Dr Tim McMahon, Marquette University

‘Fair to both the Nationalist and Unionist tradition.’

‘A comprehensive, even-handed, and elegantly concise introduction to Ireland’s past.’ Mary M. Burke, Professor of English, University of Connecticut

Joseph Coohill earned his doctorate in Modern History from Oxford. He specialises in the history of nineteenth-century Britain and Ireland, areas in which he has taught and published widely.