What are the primary identifiers for the Irish people as an ethnic group and nation?

The Irish people are identified as an ethnic group and nation native to the island of Ireland, sharing common ancestry, history, and culture. Their Irish name is "Na Gaeil" or "Na hÉireannigh," which translates to "The Gaels" or "The Irish people," respectively, reflecting their distinct identity.

What is the estimated total worldwide population of people with Irish ancestry?

It is estimated that between 50 to 80 million people worldwide have varying degrees of Irish ancestry. This figure significantly exceeds the population residing on the island of Ireland, highlighting a history of extensive emigration and diaspora.

Which countries have the largest populations of people of Irish descent?

The largest populations of people of Irish descent are primarily found in English-speaking countries, notably the United States, Great Britain, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. Significant Irish communities also exist in Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, and the United Arab Emirates.

What is the approximate population of the Republic of Ireland as of the latest census mentioned?

As of the 2022 census, the population of the Republic of Ireland was approximately 5,149,139 people.

What was the population of Northern Ireland according to the 2021 census?

According to the 2021 census, the population of Northern Ireland was recorded as 627,814.

What are the main languages spoken by the Irish people today?

While Irish (Gaeilge) was historically the primary language, English is now spoken as the first language by most Irish people. Additionally, Scots is spoken in Ulster Scots dialects, and Irish Sign Language and Northern Ireland Sign Language are also in use.

What is the predominant religion among the Irish people?

The majority of Irish people identify as Christian. Catholicism is the predominant denomination, particularly in the Republic of Ireland, while Northern Ireland has significant Protestant and Catholic populations, including Presbyterians and Anglicans.

What is the significance of the R-L21 Y-chromosome haplotype in the Irish genome?

Haplogroup R-L21 is a Y-chromosome haplotype found with the world's highest frequencies among people in Ireland, reaching nearly 80% among Irish males. Its sub-clade, R1b-L21, is dominant throughout Ireland and is associated with the Insular Celtic peoples, suggesting a common ancestor from around 2,500 BC.

What genetic ancestry do modern Irish people primarily derive from?

Modern Irish people primarily derive their ancestry from Western Steppe Herders who migrated into Europe during the early Bronze Age. They also possess a smaller genetic contribution from the Early European Farmers who inhabited Ireland during the Neolithic period.

What does a 2017 archaeogenetics study suggest about the genetic clusters within the Irish population?

A 2017 archaeogenetics study identified ten distinct geographic genetic clusters within the Irish population, seven of which showed 'Gaelic' Irish ancestry and three shared Irish-British ancestry. These clusters generally aligned with historical Irish provinces and kingdoms, indicating subtle genetic variations across the island.

How does the Anglo-Saxon ancestry of Irish people compare to that of their Celtic neighbors?

Irish people possess a relatively low percentage of Anglo-Saxon ancestry, estimated at around 10%. This is notably less than their Celtic neighbors in Scotland and Wales, where Anglo-Saxon genetic contribution is estimated to be around 30%.

What are the two main interpretations of the term "Black Irish"?

The term "Black Irish" has dual meanings: it can refer to Irish nationals of African descent, as identified in a 2016 census. Alternatively, it is sometimes used outside Ireland to describe individuals of Irish heritage with dark hair and eyes, possibly linked to theories about Spanish ancestry, although historical evidence for this is limited.

What is the genetic origin of Irish Travellers?

Genetic studies indicate that Irish Travellers originated from the general Irish population but have since developed distinct genetic characteristics. Their divergence as a separate group may date back as far as 1597, potentially linked to population displacements during the Plantation of Ulster.

Did the Romans ever attempt to conquer Ireland?

Historical accounts suggest that the Romans did not attempt to conquer Ireland, although the possibility may have been considered. Despite this, the Irish maintained trade connections with Roman territories and also participated in raids.

What impact did the arrival of Christianity have on Ireland's foreign relations in the 5th century?

The adoption of Christianity in the 5th century significantly altered Ireland's foreign relations, fostering the influence of Irish missionaries and scholars across Western Europe. This period led to the Irish being recognized as a "nation of saints and scholars."

What is the traditional view regarding the migration of Gaels from Ireland to Scotland?

The traditional perspective suggests that Gaelic language and culture were introduced to Scotland by Irish settlers in the 4th or 5th century, leading to the establishment of the kingdom of Dál Riata. However, some archaeologists question this narrative due to a lack of supporting archaeological and placename evidence for a large-scale migration or elite takeover.

Which Irish missionaries significantly influenced continental Europe?

Irish missionaries such as Saint Columba played a key role in spreading Christianity to Scotland. Saint Columbanus is particularly noted as one of the "fathers of Europe" due to his extensive influence on the continent. Additionally, Saints Cillian and Vergilius became patron saints in Würzburg, Germany, and Salzburg, Austria, respectively.

What was the role of Irish scholars in the Frankish court during the Carolingian Empire?

Irish scholars held a prominent position in the Frankish court from the era of Charlemagne, where they were highly esteemed for their intellectual contributions. Johannes Scotus Eriugena, a 9th-century Irish philosopher, was particularly influential as a founder of scholasticism and translated significant Greek theological works into Latin, making them accessible to the Western world.

How did Viking settlements influence Irish towns?

The presence of Viking raiders and traders in the 9th and 10th centuries led to the establishment of several key Irish towns, including Cork, Dublin, Limerick, and Waterford. These settlements evolved into important Norse trading ports.

What is the origin of the Irish surname "Fitz"?

Surnames beginning with "Fitz," such as FitzGerald and Fitzsimons, generally originate from the Norman settlers in Ireland. The prefix "Fitz" is derived from the Old French word for "son," indicating a lineage from these Norman families.

What does the Irish surname "Walsh" signify?

The Irish surname "Walsh," known as "Breathnach" in Irish, was historically given to settlers of Welsh origin who arrived in Ireland during and after the Norman invasion.

How did the Irish people's use of Latin abroad distinguish them in the Late Middle Ages?

During the Late Middle Ages, the Irish were distinct from the English in their international communication because they exclusively used Latin abroad. This practice highlighted Latin as a common language among educated individuals across Gaeldom, unlike the English who primarily used their own language or French.

What was the impact of the Tudor conquest and colonization on Irish society?

The Tudor conquest and colonization of Ireland in the 16th and 17th centuries led to the settlement of numerous English and Scottish individuals on the island, particularly in the north. This process significantly reshaped the social and political fabric of Ireland.

What was the "Enterprise of Ulster" and its outcome?

The "Enterprise of Ulster" refers to a conflict involving Shane O'Neill and Queen Elizabeth I of England. This endeavor ultimately proved unsuccessful for O'Neill.

What were the Munster Plantations and their historical significance?

The Munster Plantations were among the earliest successful English colonial ventures in Ireland. Starting with a population of 4,000 in 1580, their numbers potentially grew to 16,000 by the 1620s, serving as a precedent for subsequent English colonization efforts in Ireland.

What role did Oliver Cromwell play in the colonization of Ireland?

Following the suppression of Irish rebels, Oliver Cromwell (1653-1658) facilitated the settlement of "New English" colonists in Ireland, contributing to the consolidation of the Protestant ascendancy on the island.

Who is recognized as the "father of chemistry," and for what contribution?

Robert Boyle, an Anglo-Irish scientist, is widely regarded as the "father of chemistry." His seminal work, "The Sceptical Chymist," published in 1661, significantly advanced the field, and he is also known for his contributions to atomism and Boyle's Law.

What key concept did the 19th-century physicist George Stoney introduce?

In the 19th century, the physicist George Johnstone Stoney introduced the concept and the name "electron," a fundamental particle in the study of electricity and matter.

How did the Irish bardic system experience a decline?

The Irish bardic system, along with broader Gaelic culture and its learned classes, declined due to the impact of English plantations. These plantations disrupted traditional societal structures, leading to the gradual erosion of the bardic traditions.

What were "hedgeschools" in the context of Irish education?

"Hedgeschools" were informal, often clandestine, educational establishments where Irish Catholics received instruction, operating in defiance of the Penal Laws that restricted educational opportunities for Catholics.

What was the primary cause of the Great Famine (An Gorta Mór)?

The Great Famine, which occurred from 1845 to 1849, was primarily caused by potato blight devastating the staple food crop of the impoverished Irish population. This crisis was exacerbated by the British administration's policy of exporting other food resources from Ireland.

What were "Coffin Ships" during the Great Famine?

"Coffin Ships" were vessels used to transport emigrants during the Great Famine, notorious for the extremely high mortality rates among passengers due to disease and starvation. The harsh conditions and inadequate provisions led to the grim moniker, as passengers were often treated as cargo rather than people.

How did the Great Famine influence Irish nationalism?

The Great Famine profoundly impacted Irish identity and significantly fueled Irish nationalism. The immense suffering and the perceived inadequacy of British relief efforts intensified the desire for national independence and became a rallying point for subsequent nationalist movements.

What was the political outcome of the Irish War of Independence regarding the island's division?

The Irish War of Independence (1919-1921) and the subsequent Anglo-Irish Treaty led to the partition of Ireland. The independent Irish Free State was established, comprising 26 counties, while the six northeastern counties remained part of the United Kingdom as Northern Ireland.

What are the main factors contributing to the division between communities in Northern Ireland?

The division between communities in Northern Ireland is primarily attributed to religious, historical, and political differences. These divisions often manifest as nationalism, with a tendency to identify as Irish, and unionism, with a tendency to identify as British or Ulster.

What percentage of the population in the Republic of Ireland identified as Catholic in 2022?

As of the 2022 census, approximately 69.1% of the population in the Republic of Ireland, equating to 3.5 million people, identified as Catholic.

What was the significance of the 1932 International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin?

The 31st International Eucharistic Congress, held in Dublin in 1932, marked a significant religious gathering, drawing an estimated million attendees. It was themed around "the Faith of the Irish" and coincided with the supposed 1,500th anniversary of Saint Patrick's arrival in Ireland.

How did Thomas Davis define the Irish people in terms of their ethnic composition?

Thomas Davis, a Protestant Irish nationalist, characterized the Irish as a Celtic nation. He estimated that five-sixths of the population were of Gaelic Irish or Scottish Gael descent, along with some Celtic Welsh, and believed that Germanic minorities could assimilate into Irishness if they were willing.

What was Mary Harney's perspective on Ireland's relationship with America and Europe in 2000?

In 2000, Mary Harney, the Tánaiste, reflected on Ireland's unique position between America and Europe. She suggested that while geographically closer to Berlin, Ireland's spiritual connection might be stronger with Boston, highlighting the complex nature of its relationships with both the United States and the European Union.

What does the Irish diaspora encompass?

The Irish diaspora includes Irish emigrants and their descendants residing in various countries worldwide, most notably the United States, Great Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and several Caribbean nations such as Jamaica and Barbados.

Who is recognized as the "Father of the United States Navy"?

Commodore John Barry, who hailed from County Wexford, Ireland, is honored as the "Father of the United States Navy" for his foundational contributions to its establishment and development.

What role did the "Saint Patrick's Battalion" (San Patricios) play in the Mexican-American War?

The Saint Patrick's Battalion, also known as the San Patricios, was a unit composed of Irish and other Catholic soldiers who defected from the U.S. Army to join the Mexican Army during the Mexican-American War. They fought against the U.S. forces, motivated by perceived mistreatment and anti-Catholic discrimination, and were ultimately executed by the American government in 1847.

What is the estimated number of Irish people who emigrated to Argentina between the 1830s and 1890s?

An estimated 30,000 Irish individuals emigrated to Argentina between the 1830s and the 1890s. This migration was partly encouraged by clergy who favored Argentina as a Catholic destination over the more Protestant United States.

What was the "Flight of the Wild Geese"?

The "Flight of the Wild Geese" refers to the historical emigration of over half a million Irish people between 1585 and 1818 who left Ireland to serve in military conflicts on the European continent.

What notable statement did the Duke of Wellington make about Irish soldiers?

Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, characterized Ireland as "an inexhaustible nursery for the finest soldiers." This statement underscored the significant military contributions made by the Irish diaspora.

What is the significance of St. Patrick's Day on Montserrat?

On Montserrat, St. Patrick's Day is observed as a public holiday to commemorate the 1768 rebellion of enslaved Africans against Irish plantation owners. The celebration honors those who participated in and were lost during the revolt.

How are Irish surnames typically formed, and what do the prefixes mean?

Irish surnames commonly incorporate the prefixes 'Ó' or 'Mac'. 'Ó' signifies "grandson" or "descendant" of a named ancestor, while 'Mac' means "son." These prefixes have often been Anglicized to 'O' or 'Mc' over time.

What is the difference between the Irish surname prefixes "Mac" and "Nic"?

The prefix "Mac" in an Irish surname denotes "son," whereas "Nic" (a contraction of "Iníon mhic") signifies "daughter of the son." The use of "Nic" indicates a female lineage, and it typically triggers a lenition (softening) of the following consonant, with some exceptions.

What is the estimated number of people in the Irish diaspora today?

The Irish diaspora is estimated to comprise approximately 80 million people globally in the present day.

Irish People Wiki: The Emerald Tapestry: An Exploration of the Irish People

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Origins and Antecedents

Prehistoric Inhabitants

Ireland has been inhabited for approximately 33,000 years, with continuous habitation for over 10,000 years. Early historical accounts and archaeological evidence suggest various tribal groups and dynasties populated the island, with legendary origins tracing back to figures like the Milesians.

Genetic Foundations

Modern Irish genetic makeup is largely attributed to Western Steppe Herders who arrived during the early Bronze Age, approximately 4,000 years ago. This population brought with them key genetic traits, including the dominant Y-chromosome haplogroup R-L21 and a high prevalence of lactase persistence.

European Connections

Genetic studies indicate that the Neolithic farming population in Ireland showed similarities to present-day Sardinians. The Bronze Age inhabitants, associated with the Bell Beaker culture and Haplogroup R-L21, established a genetic continuity that persists to this day, linking them to other Insular Celtic peoples.

Historical Trajectory

Early Migrations and Influences

The island's history is marked by the arrival of various peoples, including Vikings who established Norse-Gaels and Anglo-Normans who initiated English conquest and colonization. These interactions led to cultural assimilation and the introduction of new populations, particularly in the north.

Medieval and Colonial Eras

During the Middle Ages, Irish culture and language significantly influenced Scotland through the settlement of Dál Riata. Later, English colonization efforts, including the Plantations of Ulster, introduced English and Scottish settlers, altering the demographic and political landscape.

The Great Famine

The mid-19th century Great Famine (An Gorta Mór) profoundly impacted the Irish population, causing widespread death and emigration. This catastrophic event fueled Irish nationalism and significantly shaped the nation's identity and subsequent struggle for independence.

Modern Ireland

The 20th century saw the partition of Ireland, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This division, rooted in religious, political, and national identity differences, continues to influence the island's social fabric.

Cultural Heritage

Language and Literature

While historically a Gaelic nation, English is now the primary language for most Irish people, with Hiberno-English dialects being prominent. Irish (Gaeilge) remains a vital part of cultural identity. Irish literature boasts a rich tradition, producing globally renowned writers and poets.

Arts and Traditions

The Irish are known for their distinctive music, dance, and mythology. Traditional sports, such as Gaelic games, are integral to the cultural landscape. Irish cuisine, while evolving, reflects a history of agricultural traditions and resourcefulness.

Scholars and Innovators

Historically, Irish scholars were highly regarded across Europe, earning the moniker "saints and scholars." Figures like Robert Boyle, considered the father of chemistry, and Johannes Scotus Eriugena, a key figure in medieval philosophy, exemplify this intellectual legacy.

The Global Irish Diaspora

Emigration Patterns

Driven by conflict, famine, and economic hardship, significant Irish emigration has occurred over centuries. The diaspora is most concentrated in English-speaking countries, but communities exist worldwide.

North American Influence

The United States hosts the largest population of Irish descent, with many influential figures in its history, including numerous presidents, claiming Irish ancestry. Canada also has a substantial Irish-Canadian population.

Australasia and Beyond

Australia and New Zealand have significant populations of Irish descent, often stemming from convict transportation and later voluntary migration. Notable Irish communities are also found in Argentina, Brazil, and other parts of Latin America.

Genetic Landscape

Haplogroup R-L21

The dominant Y-chromosome haplogroup among Irish males is R-L21, found at nearly 80% frequency. This lineage is also prevalent in Western Europe and is strongly associated with the Insular Celtic peoples.

Lactase Persistence

Ireland exhibits the world's highest frequencies of lactase persistence, the genetic trait allowing adults to digest milk. This trait is closely linked to the R-L21 haplogroup, suggesting its ancient origins within the island's population.

Ancestral Components

Genetic studies reveal a complex ancestry, with primary contributions from Neolithic European Farmers and Bronze Age Western Steppe Herders. Recent analyses also highlight distinct genetic clusters corresponding to historical provincial and kingdom boundaries.

Surnames and Lineage

Gaelic Prefixes

Irish surnames often feature prefixes like 'Ó' (descendant of) and 'Mac' (son of), reflecting a patronymic naming tradition. These prefixes are integral to understanding Gaelic lineage and family structures.

Norman and Norse Influence

Surnames also reflect historical influences, with 'Fitz-' prefixes indicating Norman descent and names derived from Norse origins appearing due to Viking settlement. These linguistic markers provide insights into Ireland's multicultural past.

Gendered Surnames

Traditionally, Irish surnames adapted based on gender. A daughter's surname would use the prefix 'Nic' (daughter) instead of 'Mac', often with a lenited form of the following consonant, a linguistic nuance reflecting societal structures.

Irish Identity

Defining Irishness

Irish identity is a complex interplay of ancestry, culture, language, religion, and political affiliation. While Gaelic heritage is central, influences from Norman, English, and Scottish populations, alongside the vast diaspora, contribute to its multifaceted nature.

Religion and Politics

Religious affiliation, particularly the distinction between Catholic and Protestant communities, has historically played a significant role in shaping political allegiances and national identity, especially in Northern Ireland.

Diaspora and Connection

For the global Irish diaspora, identity is often maintained through cultural practices, historical memory, and a connection to the homeland. The perception of "Irishness" can vary significantly between those living in Ireland and their descendants abroad.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Irish People" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about irish_people while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

switzerland in the napoleonic era

official hige dandism

trading post

commonwealth ministerial action group

citizens for responsibility and ethics in washington

ottoman cruiser mecidiye

References

An Act whereby the King and Queen's Majesties, and the Heires and Successors of the Queen, be entituled to the Countries of Leix, Slewmarge, Irry, Glimnaliry, and Offaily, and for making the same Countries Shire Grounds."; Phil. & Mar., 1556 c.2

Martin Marix Evans; David Lyons (October 2003). A terrible beauty. Gill & Macmillan. Retrieved 25 February 2013.

The figure 1,250,000 is mentioned on the commemorative stone at the Papal Cross in the Phoenix Park, Dublin; a quarter of the population of the island of Ireland, or a third of the population of Republic of Ireland

The Famine that affected Ireland from 1845 to 1852 has become an integral part of folk legend. Kenealy, This Great Calamity, p. 342.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Irish people Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Scholarly Context

This document has been meticulously compiled by an AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material to offer an in-depth, academic perspective on the Irish people. The content is intended for educational purposes, aiming to provide a nuanced understanding suitable for higher education students.

Note: While striving for accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the source, this content is not a substitute for primary research or expert consultation. The information reflects the state of knowledge as presented in the source data and may not encompass all nuances or recent developments.

The Emerald Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Origins and Antecedents 🌳

⏳ Prehistoric Inhabitants

🧬 Genetic Foundations

🌍 European Connections

Historical Trajectory 📜

⚔️ Early Migrations and Influences

🏛️ Medieval and Colonial Eras

🥔 The Great Famine

🇮🇪 Modern Ireland

Cultural Heritage 🎶

🗣️ Language and Literature

🎭 Arts and Traditions

🎓 Scholars and Innovators

The Global Irish Diaspora 🌍

✈️ Emigration Patterns

🇺🇸 North American Influence

🇦🇺 Australasia and Beyond

Genetic Landscape 🧬

🔬 Haplogroup R-L21

🥛 Lactase Persistence

↔️ Ancestral Components

Surnames and Lineage ✍️

👨‍👩‍👧 Gaelic Prefixes

📜 Norman and Norse Influence

♀️ Gendered Surnames

Irish Identity 🇮🇪

⚖️ Defining Irishness

⛪ Religion and Politics

🌐 Diaspora and Connection

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Scholarly Context

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Origins and Antecedents

Prehistoric Inhabitants

Genetic Foundations

European Connections

Historical Trajectory

Early Migrations and Influences

Medieval and Colonial Eras

The Great Famine

Modern Ireland

Cultural Heritage

Language and Literature

Arts and Traditions

Scholars and Innovators

The Global Irish Diaspora

Emigration Patterns

North American Influence

Australasia and Beyond

Genetic Landscape

Haplogroup R-L21

Lactase Persistence

Ancestral Components

Surnames and Lineage

Gaelic Prefixes

Norman and Norse Influence

Gendered Surnames

Irish Identity

Defining Irishness

Religion and Politics

Diaspora and Connection

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Scholarly Context