- Population:
- 5,255,000
- Religion:
- Christianity
Ireland was historically ruled by various Celtic kingdoms before English domination in the 12th century. After centuries of British rule, it gained independence in 1922, with Northern Ireland remaining part of the UK. Today, Ireland is known for its economic growth, cultural contributions, and strong European integration.
Ireland, officially known as Éire in Irish, is a country in Western Europe occupying most of the island of Ireland, which it shares with Northern Ireland, a part of the United Kingdom. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Irish Sea to the east, and the Celtic Sea to the south. Covering an area of approximately 70,273 square kilometers, Ireland has a population of about 5 million people as of 2023. The capital and largest city is Dublin. The official languages are Irish and English, with English being more widely spoken. Ireland operates as a parliamentary democracy and is a member of the European Union. The economy is advanced and open, with key sectors including technology, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. Ireland is known for its rich cultural heritage, including literature, music, and folklore, and is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the World Trade Organization.