The republic of Ireland occupies the greater part of an island lying to the west of Great Britain, from which it is separated—at distances ranging from 11 to 120 miles (18 to 193 km)—by the North Channel, the Irish Sea, and St. George’s Channel.

Costello introduced the Republic of Ireland Act, which repealed the External Relations Act of 1936 and ended the fiction of Commonwealth membership. The act took effect in April 1949, and the British government retaliated with legislation recognizing the new status of Ireland but guaranteeing the constitutional status of Northern Ireland and

Photos of Ireland. view 33 photos.

The Republic of Ireland is a parliamentary democracy based on the Westminster system, with a written constitution and a popularly elected president whose role is mostly ceremonial.

The island of Ireland comprises the Republic of Ireland, which is a sovereign country, and Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. The Republic of Ireland endured a hard-fought birth.

Learn about the origins, development and challenges of the Irish state since its foundation in 1919. Explore the political, economic, social and cultural changes that shaped the country from independence to the present day.

Learn about the history, geography, politics and culture of Ireland, a European country on the island of Ireland. Find out how Ireland became independent from the United Kingdom, what languages are spoken, and what are the main political parties.

Discover the best of Ireland's six regions, from action-packed adventures to rejuvenating retreats. Find out how to plan your trip, get travel tips, and explore the island's history, culture, and nature.

Ireland formally left the British Dominion in 1949 when Ireland declared itself a republic. Deep sectarian divides between the Catholic and Protestant populations and systemic discrimination in Northern Ireland erupted into years of violence known as the "Troubles" that began in the 1960s.