Overview

A vital exploration of Irish unification Will Ireland really reunite? Throughout the century since partition the unification of the two parts of the island seemed impossible. Many still feel that it is, particularly because of the bloody legacy of past conflict. However, by 2030, if not sooner, Ulster unionists' demographic and electoral advantages will be over. And in the light of Brexit, the rising popularity of Sinn Fein, political developments both sides of the border, and within Great Britain, Irish unification referendums will become increasingly likely. Yet even those who want these to happen are not prepared. Making Sense of a United Ireland is a landmark exploration of this most contentious of issues. Distinguished political scientist Brendan O'Leary - a global expert on divided places, who has been profoundly engaged with the Irish question for nearly four decades - argues that the time to consider the future of the island of Ireland is now.

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9780241995778

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Reviews

Welcome and compelling * FT * A tour de force * Globe and Mail * Thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [provides] invaluable insights into the choices and challenges that lie ahead -- Oran Doyle * Irish Times * Highly impressive . . . several books have been written about this subject in 2022 alone, but for sheer intellectual firepower O'Leary wins first prize -- Andrew Lynch * Business Post * Should be required reading for everyone - including unionists - who are interested in and concerned about the fate of this island -- Andy Pollak * DRB * Brilliant -- Brian Feeney * Irish News * A must-read . . . [O'Leary has] thought through the implications of possible unity so deeply it would be foolish for anyone who seeks it or opposes it to ignore his book -- Cathal Mac Coille A tour de force, a highly readable, stylishly written, and essential book for anyone interested in a united Ireland, whether supportive, opposed or simply anxious about disturbing the peace we have enjoyed for 25 years . . . fascinating and ultimately optimistic * Irish Central * Impressively researched and well-argued . . . detailed and readable * Irish Independent *

Author Information

Brendan O'Leary is Lauder Professor of Political Science at the University of Pennsylvania and a Visiting Professor of Political Science at Queen's University, Belfast. He is an American citizen but both Irish (born in Cork) and Northern Irish in origin. He has been deeply engaged in conflict resolution in Ireland for nearly four decades (including over a decade advising the British Labour Party in the run-up to the Good Friday Agreement; advising an influential group of Irish-Americans led by Congressman Bruce Morrison through the 1990s; and writing advisory memoranda for the Irish government). Brendan has written, co-authored and edited many books and Making Sense of a United Ireland will be his 30th book.

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