The Story of Ireland

The narrative surveys Ireland's history from prehistoric settlement and mythic cycles through the development of early law, conversion to Christianity and the rise of monasticism. It then traces Viking raids and settlements, the emergence of native kings and momentary unification under a prominent ruler, followed by the fragmentation that allowed the Anglo-Norman incursion and evolving colonial governance. Subsequent chapters follow English royal interventions, parliamentary measures such as the Statute of Kilkenny, periodic invasions and rebellions, the fluctuating power of great territorial families, and the Tudor reforms culminating in the assertion of royal supremacy, presenting events chronologically with commentary on institutions, culture and conflict.