We follow how a remote landmass on the far western fringe of Europe became the home of a lasting Gaelic civilization and a major center of classical and Christian knowledge, before coming under attack by Viking raiders and Anglo-Norman invaders. We examine the English Crown’s shifting and increasingly desperate strategies to control Ireland, and the long battle over control of land and religion before Ireland was finally subjected to Protestant domination following the Glorious Revolution.

Recommended further reading: Cronin, “A History of Ireland”; Foster, ed., “The Oxford Illustrated History of Ireland”; Ranelagh, “A Short History of Ireland”; Roberson, “The Irish Ice Sheet,”

Music: “Danse du Grand Calumet de la Paix” / “Forets Paisibles,” from the opera-ballet “Les Indes Galantes,” by Jean-Philippe Rameau & Louis Fuzelier, 1735, performed by Les Arts Florissants, with vocalists Patricia Petibon & Nicolas Rivenq -- used with the kind authorization of Les Arts Florissants

Image: Lavabo, Mellifont Abbey, Ireland

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