A view of the south of Ireland – political, social, geographical – through the eyes of a liberal northern protestant being asked to rejoin it. 'A pleasure to read... Incisively mixing memoir, reportage and analysis' Daily Mail 'Discursive, humane and meticulously attentive to verbal nuances that can spell a world of meaning' Irish Examiner 'Patterson's travels provide humorous asides, telling insights and sobering pessimism' Irish Independent The reunification of Ireland, which in 1998 seemed to have been pushed over the far horizon as an aspiration, has returned with a vengeance. Brexit calls into question the British commitment to Northern Ireland and threatens its economy. There has been a surge in support for Sinn Féin in the South, a party pushing relentlessly for a poll on the future of the border. If Sinn Féin enters the government of the Republic, as seems inevitable in the coming years, this issue will move even higher up the agenda, with who knows what consequences north of the border. In The Last Irish Question, Glenn Patterson travels the country, looking at this place he is being asked to join and which a significant number of people in the North have spent a very long time shunning. Most of the South is terra incognita to them (as it is to many people who live in Dublin). There have been countless books describing and travelling through Ulster, but never one that turns its gaze the other way. Brilliantly witty and alarmingly topical, this is a social, political and geographical view of the South of Ireland, as well as a journey of discovery for a quizzical Northerner being asked to rejoin it.

The full story of Winston Churchill's lifelong engagement with Ireland and the Irish. A long overdue book which at last addresses the most neglected part of Churchill's legacy, on both sides of the Irish Sea.

The 'Handbook of Home Rule: Being Articles on the Irish Question' stands as a seminal anthology that brings together a diverse array of perspectives on a pivotal historical moment: the struggle for Irish Home Rule. Its collection spans various literary styles including essays, historical analysis, and personal narratives, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the debate. This anthology not only explores the political and social dimensions of Home Rule but also delves into the nuanced arguments for and against it, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the issue's complexity. The works within capture the zeitgeist of a period marked by fervent advocacy and opposition, providing invaluable insights into the era's political discourse. The contributors to this volume, including figures such as John Morley, Viscount James Bryce Bryce, and W. E. Gladstone, among others, are distinguished not only by their direct involvement in the political debates of the time but also by their profound impact on the literary and intellectual landscapes of the era. Their collective contributions offer a rich tapestry of thought that spans various aspects of the Irish Question, from legal intricacies to ethical considerations. This anthology aligns with and contributes to the broader political, cultural, and literary movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, encapsulating the dynamic and often contentious dialogue surrounding Home Rule. 'Readers seeking to immerse themselves in the historical and ideological currents that shaped the debate on Irish Home Rule will find in this anthology a treasure trove of insights and perspectives. The 'Handbook of Home Rule' is not merely a collection of texts; it is a gateway to understanding the complex political and cultural narratives that have influenced the course of Irish history. Ideal for scholars, students, and anyone with a keen interest in Irish politics and history, this volume offers a unique opportunity to explore a significant historical dialogue through the varied lenses of its most articulate commentators.

The second edition of this popular title provides both a narrative and analysis of the relationship between Great Britain and Ireland, from its origins and the Act of Union in 1800 to the Anglo Irish settlement in 1922. Important events such as the Great Famine and the Easter Rising are explained, and key figures such as Parnell, Gladstone and O'Connell are assessed. This is an essential text for students studying this period to aid understanding of the complex but compelling issues that arose in Ireland and Britain during this period. Throughout the book, key dates, terms and issues are highlighted, and historical interpretations of key debates are outlined. Summary diagrams are included to consolidate knowledge and understanding of the period, and exam style questions and tips for each examination board provide the opportunity to develop exam skills.