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The object of waves of invasion from Europe, the Emerald Isle has been inhabited for 9,000 years. England began seizing land in the 1100s. Eventually, in 1922, 26 Roman Catholic counties won independence as the Irish Free State. Sectarian violence claimed 3,200 lives beginning in 1969. A cease-fire was reached in 1994 but ended in 1996. Peace was restored in 1997, and in 1998 the historic peace pact known as the Good Friday Agreement was signed. It was supported by 71 percent of Northern Ireland voters and 90 percent of Irish Republic voters. Fringe groups still spark isolated incidents of violence.

As an EU member, Ireland participates in the euro currency, and its robust growth promotes trade, foreign investment, and industries such as electronics.