Madame Alexander Ireland Irish International Doll

The history of Ireland began with the first known settlement in Ireland around 8000 BC, when hunter-gatherers arrived from continental Europe, probably via a land bridge. Few archaeological traces remain of this group. Ireland has evolved greatly, becoming more diverse and sophisticated than ever before by intergrating itself into the global economy. The Catholic Church, who once excercised an enormous amount of power, has reduced its influence on socio-political issues in Ireland. Irish bishops no longer have the right to advise and influence the Irish public on how to exercise their political rights. Modern Ireland's detachment of the Church from ordinary life can be explained by the increasing disinterest in Church doctrine by younger generations.