Brendan O'Leary

Thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [provides] invaluable insights into the choices and challenges that lie ahead

Highly impressive . . . several books have been written about this subject in 2022 alone, but for sheer intellectual firepower O'Leary wins first prize

Should be required reading for everyone - including unionists - who are interested in and concerned about the fate of this island

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

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

Impressively researched and well-argued . . . detailed and readable

Should it happen? How might it happen?

A century ago the resolution to Ireland’s long struggle for independence was a settlement that saw six of its northern counties remain in the United Kingdom while the other twenty-six formed the new Republic of Ireland. Since partition the unification of the two parts of the island has seemed impossible, particularly because of the bloody legacy of past conflict. 
 
However, by 2030, if not sooner, the demographic and electoral advantages of Ulster Unionists – who identify as British – will be over. Political developments on both sides of the Irish border, and within Great Britain, make calls for unification referendums increasingly likely. Yet even those who want these to happen are not prepared. 
 
Making Sense of a United Ireland is a remarkable exploration of this most contentious of issues by Professor Brendan O'Leary, a global expert on divided places, who has worked on the Irish question for nearly forty years.

Making Sense of a United Ireland

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Praise for Making Sense of a United Ireland

Welcome and compelling

A tour de force

Thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [provides] invaluable insights into the choices and challenges that lie ahead

Welcome and compelling

A tour de force

Thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [provides] invaluable insights into the choices and challenges that lie ahead

Welcome and compelling

A tour de force

Thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [provides] invaluable insights into the choices and challenges that lie ahead

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