Irish facts for kids
Irish is a word that can mean many things, all connected to the beautiful island of Ireland. It can refer to the island itself, the people who live there, or even a special language. Understanding what "Irish" means depends on the topic being discussed.
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Understanding "Irish"
The word "Irish" helps us talk about different parts of Ireland's geography, history, and culture. It is important to know which meaning is being used.
The Island of Ireland
Ireland is a large island located in Western Europe. It is west of Great Britain. The island is known for its green landscapes, often called the "Emerald Isle." Two different political areas share this island.
The Republic of Ireland
The Republic of Ireland is an independent country. It covers most of the island of Ireland. Its capital city is Dublin. This country joined the United Nations in 1955. It also became part of the European Union in 1973.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom. It is located in the northeastern part of the island of Ireland. Its capital city is Belfast. Northern Ireland shares a border with the Republic of Ireland.
Irish History: Past Countries
Over time, the island of Ireland has seen different forms of government. The Irish Free State was a country that existed from 1922 to 1937. It was a self-governing dominion within the British Empire. In 1937, it became the Republic of Ireland. The Irish Republic was a revolutionary state declared in 1919. It aimed for full independence from Britain. It existed during the Irish War of Independence.
The Irish People
Irish people are individuals who come from the island of Ireland. They also include people around the world who have Irish heritage. Many Irish people have moved to other countries over centuries. This has created a large global Irish community.
The Irish Language
The Irish language is a very old language. It is also known as Gaeilge. It belongs to the Goidelic branch of the Celtic languages. While English is the main language spoken in Ireland today, Irish is still an official language. It is taught in schools and spoken in some communities.
