For a small island, there are a lot of inspiring things Ireland has done throughout its history. Did you know about these top ten?
Ireland has a long history as an island and country. Irish people have travelled across the globe, and still, to this day, the Irish inspire change.
With plenty of progress behind us and, we’re sure, plenty more to come, we thought we’d round up some of the island’s most inspiring achievements.
So, without further ado, did you know of these inspiring things Ireland has done?
10. Resurrected the Irish language ‒ there’s hope for all languages out there
With so many cultural and ethnic languages around the world in danger of extinction, Ireland has taken steps to ensure the Irish language’s longevity.
Ireland has invested heavily in the near-dead language. This is inspiring other cultures damaged by colonialism to embrace their native tongue.
9. Become a hub for technology ‒ Dublin is considered the European capital of tech
For a country that embraces and celebrates its past and history so much, Ireland, especially Dublin, is surprisingly on the front lines when it comes to looking toward the future, specifically technology.
Many countries aim to replicate Ireland’s investment in technology-based companies to boost their economy and networking globally.
8. Conquered the screen ‒ Irish actors and entertainment are everywhere
One of the inspiring things Ireland has done is delve into the entertainment world once dominated by Hollywood. Irish actors appear in American and English movies, while Irish studios produce local content for the world’s audience.
Ireland is famous for its arts. The country continues to inspire the film industry to produce content from, with, and for Irish audiences.
7. Repealed the eighth ‒ legalising abortion by public vote
The Constitution of Ireland was influenced by the Catholic religion, as society historically revolved heavily around the church.
In 2018, a referendum was held across the country with a majority in favour of repealing the eighth amendment, which legalised the right to choose.
The topic of abortion continues to be a divisive issue around the world, but many believe this to be one of the inspiring things Ireland has done.
6. Travelled the globe ‒ the Irish are everywhere
There are now more people outside of Ireland with Irish heritage compared to those who remain on the island.
The Irish helped build the United States and continue to expand internationally. For a country to have such a large population of descendants spread all over the earth, Irish people are amongst some of the most inspiring things Ireland has done.
5. Climate action ‒ taking responsibility for the planet’s future
Ireland has contributed its fair share of damage to the planet. But Ireland has taken action toward a greener future to ensure damage is kept to a minimum.
A lot more is yet to be done by the island to achieve goals, but Ireland’s commitment to the cause inspires other countries to also be climate conscious.
4. Neutrality ‒ a peaceful nation in wartime
Ireland is famous for its refusal to engage in international conflict, instead opting for peace missions and offering sanctuary to those impacted by war.
Neutrality is a debated issue around the globe, but many countries are inspired by Ireland’s continued dedication to remaining out of war.
3. Peace following The Troubles ‒ inner conflict ended by popular vote
Northern Ireland is infamous internationally for The Troubles, with the IRA using violence in an attempt to reunite the North with the rest of Ireland.
In 1998, Northern Ireland held a referendum that led to the Good Friday Agreement, bringing an end to violence and working toward peace. The population’s vote was and continues to be, seen as one of the most inspiring movements in Irish history.
2. Welcoming refugees ‒ the land of a thousand welcomes
The Irish are famous for their hospitality and welcoming nature, and that’s obvious when you know how welcoming Ireland has been to refugees.
During the current war in Ukraine, Ireland has homed many who have fled for their safety. With a lot more work to do, Ireland continues to inspire others to welcome refugees in times of need.
1. First country to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote ‒ leading the way
With a cultural history heavily influenced by the Catholic Church, Ireland held a referendum in 2015 with a majority in favour of legalising marriage amongst LGBTQIA+ people.
The vote was historic across the globe, with Ireland being the first to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote. The international impact and influence this had made it one of the most inspiring things Ireland has done.
