An accessible history of Ireland from the earliest records. Lydon recounts in colourful detail the waves of settlers, missionaries and invaders who have come to Ireland since pre-history and offers a long view on Irish history up to the present. 'In this general history Professor Lydon makes use of new work and gives readers a sound survey of Ireland's long and chequered history.' - Contemporary Review'James Lydon has produced a book which will take its place as a text that can be recommended to the general reader who wants a reliable and well written introduction to the political history of Ireland over the past thousand years.' - Journal of the History Association