9781422269640

I R I S H

FRench GERMAN IRISH UKRAINIAN

African Chinese GREEK INDIAN ITALIAN mexican MIDDLE EASTERN

I R I S H

Jackson Peters

MASON CREST MIAMI

Mason Crest PO Box 221876, Hollywood, FL 33022 (866) MCP-BOOK (toll-free) • www.masoncrest.com

Copyright © 2024 by Mason Crest, an imprint of National Highlights, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission from the publisher. Printed in the United States of America First printing 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 ISBN (hardback) 978-1-4222-4854-6 ISBN (series) 978-1-4222-4840-9 ISBN (ebook) 978-1-4222-6964-0 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data Names: Peters, Jackson, author. Title: Irish / Jackson Peters. Description: Hollywood, FL: Mason Crest, [2024] | Series: Customs, culture & cuisine | Includes bibliographical references and index. Identifiers: LCCN 2023027737 | ISBN 9781422248546 (hardback) | ISBN 9781422269640 (ebook) Subjects: LCSH: Ireland--Juvenile literature. | Food habits--Ireland--Juvenile literature. Classification: LCC DA906 .P45 2024 | DDC 941.5--dc23/eng/20230630

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KEY ICONS TO LOOK FOR: Sidebars: This boxed material within the main text allows readers to build knowledge, gain insights, explore possibilities, and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Educational Videos: Readers can view videos by scanning our QR codes, providing them with additional educational content to supplement the text. Examples include news coverage, moments in history, speeches, iconic sports moments, and much more! Glossary of Key Terms: This back-of-the-book glossary contains terminology used throughout this book. Words found here increase the reader’s ability to read and comprehend higher-level books and articles in this field. Research Project: Readers are pointed toward an area of further inquiry that relates to each book and encourages deeper research and analysis. Introduction............................................................. 6 Chapter 1: Munster.................................................. 9 Chapter 2: Ulster................................................... 25 Chapter 3: Connacht.............................................. 39 Chapter 4: Leinster................................................ 51 Chapter 5: Irish Food in America............................. 63 Research Project.................................................... 74 Glossary of Key Terms............................................. 75 Further Reading......................................................76 Internet Resources.................................................. 77 Index. .................................................................... 78 Author’s Biography & Credits................................... 80 CONTENTS

Ireland is a country steeped in history, culture, and gastronomy. Its breathtaking landscapes, rugged coastlines, and dynamic cities attract millions of visitors every year as they seek to explore the country’s ancient past, experience its vibrant present, and savor its well-known cuisine. Ireland is divided into four provinces, each with its own unique blend of influences and culinary traditions informed by the land, the people, and the events that have shaped their development. The four provinces of Ireland are Leinster, Munster, Connacht, and Ulster. Each of them has a distinct character, shaped by its geography, the resources it offers, and the story of its native residents.  Leinster: Located in the east of Ireland, Leinster is the most populous province with its twelve traditional counties. Bounded by the River Liffey to the north and the Slieve Bloom Mountains to the west, Leinster is home to the Republic of Ireland’s capital, Dublin, a city of slightly more than half a million people nestled on the Irish Sea coast.  Munster: Munster, in the south, is home to the counties of Cork, Kerry, and Limerick, among others. The city of Limerick is famous in the literary world for sharing its name with a form of poetry. A limerick is a five-line poem with an AABBA rhyming scheme. Although it’s not the birthplace of the limerick, Limerick hosts the annual Bring Your Limericks to Limerick international poetry competition.  Connacht: Connacht, in the west of Ireland, includes the counties of Galway, Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon and is the smallest of the four provinces. Agriculture and tourism are the biggest industries in Connacht, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing back-to nature holiday. INTRODUCTION

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 Ulster: Divided between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland , Ulster includes counties such as Donegal, Cavan, and Monaghan. Although Northern Ireland is a separate country and part of the United Kingdom (UK), its people are still Irish, but with their own customs and approach to cooking. The history of Ireland traces the country’s roots from the prehistoric period to the present day. It includes the legacy of the ancient Celts, the impact of the Vikings and Normans, and the struggles of the country’s tumultuous political past. The dynamic culture of Ireland, from its literature and music to its festivals and sports, and the unique character of each province makes it a fascinating country with much to discover. Not to be overlooked are the gastronomic delights of Ireland, from the use of local ingredients to the classic traditional recipes that make Irish cuisine so distinctive. From hearty

stews and savory roasts to artisan cheeses and craft beers, Ireland is a food lover’s paradise, with culinary traditions unique to each province.

Donegal

Northern Ireland (UK)

Sligo

Leitrim

Mayo

Roscommon

Longford

Meath

Galway

Westmeath

Offaly

Kildare

Clare

Laois

Limerick

Tipperary

Kerry

Cork

Introduction

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COLCANNON INGREDIENTS: russet potatoes, kale, spring onions, leek, unsalted butter, black pepper and salt

Munster CHAPTER

Munster is located in the southwestern region of Ireland. This captivating area is home to six diverse counties: Clare, Cork, Kerry, Limerick, Tipperary, and Waterford. The largest city in Munster is Cork City, a bustling hub for arts, music, and culinary delights. Munster is a treasure trove of fascinating history, with each of its six counties boasting unique attractions that contribute to the rich tapestry of Irish culture. The Cliffs of Moher is undoubtedly one of the most visited natural wonders in Ireland. These awe-inspiring coastal cliffs, towering 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, offer breathtaking views along which visitors can hike, cycle, or simply find a bench to enjoy the show. Killarney National Park is another iconic attraction in Munster that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a designated United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Biosphere Reserve that features pristine woodlands, tranquil lakes, and Ireland’s highest mountain range. The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including red deer, otters, and golden eagles.

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Rock of Cashel, located in County Tipperary, is a collection of medieval buildings perched on a limestone outcrop. This site dates back to the 12th century and is steeped in legend, making it a popular destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. Blarney Castle, one of Ireland’s most famous castles, is situated in County Cork and is known for the Blarney Stone, which visitors can kiss for good luck. It is also surrounded by lush gardens that make it an ideal location for a leisurely stroll. History Munster has a long history dating back to 500 BCE, when the Celtic tribes established several kingdoms in the region, ruled by famous figures like Brian Boru and Cormac Mac Airt. The powerful Eoghanachta dynasty was another significant influence on the region, leaving behind many archaeological sites. The Vikings also

Originally built in the 13th century, Blarney Castle has had several owners over the years, and now serves as a County Cork tourist attraction.

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established settlements along the coast, including Limerick City, which later became an important trading center. The city of Waterford, renowned for its exquisite crystal production, is Ireland’s oldest, having been founded by Vikings around 914 CE. It houses the Waterford Viking Triangle, a collection of museums that celebrate the city’s Viking heritage. In 1169, the Anglo-Norman invasion led by Richard de Clare marked the beginning of English rule in Ireland, which lasted for centuries. Munster was a hotbed of rebellion against British rule, with the Desmond Rebellions and the Cromwellian Conquest leading to widespread deprivation among the population. Between 1845 and 1852, the Great Famine caused mass emigration and devastation to rural areas. Despite these challenges, Munster has experienced economic growth through the tourism and agriculture industries while managing to preserve its cultural heritage. Geography The province of Munster, located in the southwestern region of Ireland, is home to a diverse and breathtaking landscape. From rolling hills and lush green pastures to rugged coastlines and dramatic cliffs, Munster’s geography offers something for everyone. Along with the cliffs of Moher and Killarney National Park, the region is also known for its remarkable Burren, a unique limestone plateau that covers an area of approximately 250 square kilometers in the northwestern County Clare. The Burren is known for its distinctive karst landscape featuring exposed bedrock formations interspersed with rare flora species. Climate Munster’s mild and temperate maritime climate shapes its natural resources, agricultural practices, and local cuisine. With temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in summer, coastal areas are milder than inland areas. The region receives ample rainfall throughout the year, averaging around 1,200 mm (47 inches) annually, which contributes to lush green landscapes and fertile soil ideal for agriculture.

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Experience the view of the Cliffs of Moher by drone.

SHAKY BRIDGE

The city of Cork, located in the province of Munster, is home to the “Daly’s Bridge,” more commonly known as the “Shaky Bridge.” It was built in 1926 and spans the River Lee, connecting Sunday’s Well on the north side to Fitzgerald Park on the south side. It earned its nickname because of how the platform tends to move around when one crosses it.

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Munster is home to a flourishing dairy industry.

This year-long mild climate is beneficial to a diverse range of agricultural practices, from dairy farming to crop cultivation. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and butter are abundant in this region and have led to a thriving dairy industry. Additionally, the fertile soil allows for the successful growth of various crops like potatoes, barley, wheat, and vegetables which form an essential part of traditional Irish cuisine. Fisheries also benefit from Munster’s coastal location, which provides direct access to fresh fish like salmon and haddock along with shellfish such as mussels and oysters. The abundance of these natural resources directly influences local culinary traditions by providing a wide variety of ingredients that create unique dishes specific to this province. Customs and Culture In Munster, centuries of history have led to a unique tapestry of customs and a vibrant culture characterized by its warmth and hospitality, a strong sense of community, and deep-rooted traditions.

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Language The Irish language is still spoken widely in certain areas of Munster called the Gaeltacht regions, such as West Kerry and parts of County Cork. These communities have preserved the traditional Gaelic way of life through music, dance, storytelling, and more. Many famous Irish writers hail from Munster, including Frank O’Connor (Cork) and John B. Keane (Kerry), who both contributed significantly to modern Irish literature. Traditional Folklore

Munster’s vivid folklore includes tales of mythical heroes such as Cu Chulainn and Fionn mac Cumhaill, as well as stories about fairies or leprechauns. These legends are often shared during traditional storytelling sessions known as seanchai . The region also hosts numerous festivals celebrating its culture, such as the Cork Midsummer Festival, which every June showcases theater, music, dance, and visual arts from local and international artists alike.

“Finn McCool Comes to Aid the Fianna” is a drawing from the 1930s by Stephen Reid. It depicts Irish folklore hero Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) meeting his father’s old retainers in the forests of Connacht.

Music and Dance Munster boasts a lively

traditional music scene with its own distinct style known as Sliabh Luachra . Local musicians have mastered instruments such as the fiddle, tin whistle, flute, accordion, concertina,

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or uilleann pipes. The region has produced numerous talented musicians who have gained international recognition for their skills in playing traditional tunes. Additionally, set dancing is an integral part of social gatherings in rural areas across Munster, where locals come together at community halls or pubs to dance in intricate patterns while accompanied by live music. Hurling and Gaelic Football Sports play a significant role in shaping the customs within Munster. Hurling—one of Ireland’s oldest sports—holds particular importance here due to its deep-rooted connection with ancient Celtic warriors’ training exercises. Counties like Cork and Tipperary are known for their successful hurling teams that compete fiercely against each other during championship season every summer. Gaelic football also enjoys immense popularity throughout the province; both sports are governed by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), which fosters a strong sense of pride among players representing their respective counties on match days. Patron Saints and Pattern Days Munster has a strong religious heritage, with numerous patron saints associated with the region. One of the most famous is St. Patrick, who is said to have founded his first church in County Tipperary. To honor these saints, communities across Munster celebrate pattern days, which involve attending mass at holy wells or other sacred sites, followed by festivities with music, dancing, and feasting. County Cork County Cork is the largest county in Ireland and was first settled by Celtic tribes around 600 BCE. Throughout its history, the region has been impacted by a variety of cultures, including Norse settlers, who founded coastal settlements in the 9th century. In more recent times, County Cork played a significant role in Irish independence

Chapter 1: Munster

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Gaelic football is a popular sport in County Cork.

movements, witnessing intense fighting during the Easter Rising (1916) and the War of Independence (1919-1921). County Cork is home to several geographical highlights that attract visitors from all over the world. One of the most popular attractions is the Wild Atlantic Way, a scenic coastal route that stretches more than 2,500 kilometers along the western seaboard of Ireland. Within County Cork, visitors can stop at Mizen Head, which is the most south-westerly point of mainland Ireland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Another highlight of the region is Cork Harbour, which is one of the largest natural harbors in the world and provides picturesque views and opportunities for water-based activities such as sailing and kayaking. Additionally, Garnish Island, located off Glengarriff Bay, is famous for its stunning Italianate gardens, exotic plants, and panoramic views of the surrounding area. Local Cuisine Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork City, is at the heart of the food scene in County Cork, considered by many to be the food capital of Ireland. West Cork is the influential area that allows

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