爱尔兰英文介绍.ppt

* Ireland National emblem National flag outline Geography History Politics Economy Culture Advice for conversation Geography Ireland is a small island off the northwest cost of Great Britain, divided from Scotland by a narrow strait of water. The Republic of Ireland is in total 70,282 square kilometers Population : 4,203,200 ( July,2009 ) A ring of coastal mountains surround low plains at the centre of the island. Ireland has a mild but changeable oceanic climate with few extremes. The climate is perfect for many domestic animals (such as cows and horses) and for growing grass. History Pre-history The earliest settlers arrived around 7000 BC in the middle stone age period. Rival colonialists of the new stone age period reached around 3000 BC. These were farmers who raised animals and cultivated the soil. Within about another thousand years, around 2000 BC, prospectors and metal workers arrived. It is thought that a second wave of people reached Ireland around 1200 BC. They are still nameless, but built on the achievements of the present inhabitants. The Celts The Celts were commonly thought to have come to Ireland as early as the 6th century BC, with subsequent groups arriving up to the time of Christ. The Celts had deep influence on Ireland. Among all the legacies of the Celts, it is their language that has proved the most lasting. Along with the language, the Celts also brought an instrument of social and cultural unity and a legal system to the island. The coming of Christianity Christianity was introduced into Ireland some time in the 5th century. Traditionally, it was said to have been brought by Saint Patrick. Although there were some Christians in Ireland before Patricks arrival, by the time of his death in 461 AD, the whole island was effectively Christian. The Middle Ages From around 800 onwards Vikings marauders attacked Ireland, as well as England. The Vikings were great traders and did much to develop commerce in medieval Ire