Ireland has seen consequential changes, as cultural and social trends evident during preceding decades have continued and been consolidated. These include the serious loss of prestige suffered by institutions that had been pillars of the Irish state since independence, including both the Roman Catholic Church and the traditional political system, due to an unrelenting series of revelations and scandals. Historical Dictionary of Ireland contains a chronology, an introduction, an extensive bibliography, and cross-referenced entries on important personalities and aspects of the country's politics, economy, foreign relations, religion, and culture. This book is an excellent resource for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Ireland.