Quote Originally Posted by Catalpa
What are you on about more like!

Ireland was then (circa 800 AD) a Country rich in monastic settlements and learned men.

Sure there were battles and wars too, it wasn't all a bed of roses, but we then had a distinct Culture of our own Laws, Language and Writing following the Christian religion and recognizing the Pope as the rightful successor of Saint Peter.

Ireland was a recognisable Cultural entity whose people went by the name of 'Gaels'.

Surely there is nothing wrong in being proud of that?
True. But any pride I have in Irish cultural achievements is not going to make me want to keep foreigners out of this country.