1. The Irish Flag: A Symbol of National Pride
The Irish flag, which dates back to the 1800s, is a symbol of the nation's long and proud history. It features three vertical stripes of green, white, and orange, representing the country's Catholic, Protestant, and independent traditions respectively. The flag is a source of national pride for the Irish people, and is seen at many public events and gatherings throughout the country.
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Advertisement2. The Highest Point in All of Mount Carrantuohill
Standing at an impressive 1041 meters, Mount Carrantuohill is the highest point in all of Ireland. Located in the Macgillycuddy's Reeks mountain range in County Kerry, this peak is the highest of the range's nine major peaks and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare Kerry slug, which is only found in the Macgillycuddy's Reeks.
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3. The Celtic Tiger: The Impact of the Celtic Tribes on Ireland
The Celtic tribes arrived on the island of Ireland between 600 and 150 B.C., bringing with them a rich culture and a unique language. This influx of Celtic tribes had a profound impact on the island, introducing a new language, customs, and beliefs that would shape the culture of Ireland for centuries to come. The Celts brought with them a strong sense of identity and a strong sense of community, which still remains today. This period of Celtic influence is often referred to as the 'Celtic Tiger' period, and it is during this time that Ireland began to develop its own distinct culture and identity.
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4. The Parliament of A Brief History
The Parliament of Ireland is a bicameral legislature, consisting of two chambers: the Senate and the Lower House. The Senate is the upper house, and is composed of 60 members, 11 of whom are nominated by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister). The Lower House is the more powerful of the two chambers, and is made up of 158 members, elected by the people of Ireland. Together, the two chambers form the legislative branch of the Irish government, and are responsible for making laws and overseeing the executive branch.
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Advertisement5. Explore Dublin, Capital City & Vibrant Culture
Ireland is a country known for its rolling green hills and friendly people, but it is also home to the most heavily populated county in the country: County Dublin. With a population of over 1.3 million people, County Dublin is the most densely populated county in Ireland, and is home to the capital city of Dublin. It is a bustling hub of activity, with a vibrant culture, a thriving economy, and a wide range of attractions. From the iconic Guinness Storehouse to the historic Trinity College, County Dublin is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the Emerald Isle.
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6. The Longest Place Name in the World: Muckanaghederdauhaulia
Ireland is home to the longest place name in the world - Muckanaghederdauhaulia. This remarkable name is composed of 24 letters and translates to "the ridge of the pig's back between two pools". It is located in the Connemara region of County Galway, and is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning scenery and unique name.
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7. The Irish Defense Force: A History
The Irish Defense Force is the military organization of Ireland, responsible for the defense of the country and its citizens. It is composed of the Army, Air Corps, Naval Service, and Reserve Defense Forces, and is headed by the Chief of Staff. The Army is the largest branch of the Irish Defense Force, and is responsible for land-based operations. The Air Corps is responsible for air operations, while the Naval Service is responsible for naval operations. The Reserve Defense Forces are a part-time reserve force, and are composed of the Army Reserve, Naval Service Reserve, and Air Corps Reserve.
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Advertisement8. Saint Patrick's Day: A Celebration of Irish Heritage
Celebrated on the 17th of March each year, Saint Patrick's Day is a national holiday in Ireland that honors the patron saint of the country, Saint Patrick. The day is marked with parades, festivals, and traditional Irish music and dance, as well as the wearing of green clothing and shamrocks. It is a day of celebration for the Irish people, and is also celebrated around the world by those of Irish descent.
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9. Ireland's Mobile Phone Obsession
In Ireland, the number of mobile phones is astonishingly high - in fact, there are more mobile phones than people! This is due to the fact that many people own multiple phones, and the country's population of 4.8 million is relatively small. Additionally, Ireland has a high rate of mobile phone ownership, with over 90% of the population owning a mobile device. This is due to the country's high levels of economic development, which has enabled citizens to purchase the latest technology.
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10. Ireland's Journey to Becoming a Member of the European Community
In 1973, Ireland became a member of the European Community, joining the ranks of other European nations in the pursuit of economic and political integration. This move was a major milestone in the country's history, as it opened up new opportunities for trade and investment, as well as the potential for increased cooperation between Ireland and its European neighbours. Since joining the European Community, Ireland has seen a significant increase in its economic growth and development, and has become an important player in the European Union.
