Diarmaid Ferriter's latest book, "The Revelation of Ireland," offers a profound examination of the nation's transformation from 1995 to 2020. This period, marked by significant socio-economic changes, includes the explosive growth of the Celtic Tiger economic boom, which saw the population's spending surge from £25 billion in 1995 to £40 billion in 2000. Unemployment rates plummeted from 17% in 1987 to just 4% in 2003, showcasing a remarkable recovery and growth in the Irish economy, which became a leading exporter of electronic software [2d4f0e14].
The book also highlights pivotal moments in Ireland's social evolution, such as the 2011 royal visit and the legalization of divorce, which reflect the shifting cultural landscape. Ferriter notes the waning influence of the Catholic Church, particularly in light of child abuse scandals that emerged from RTE documentaries and the Ryan report. By 2012, the number of seminarians training for the Catholic priesthood had dwindled to just 12, illustrating a significant decline in the Church's authority and relevance in Irish society [2d4f0e14].
In addition to these historical insights, Ferriter's work is notable for its comprehensive listing of 700 authors and their contributions, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives on this tumultuous period in Irish history. The book serves not only as a historical account but also as a reflection on the broader social changes that have shaped modern Ireland [2d4f0e14].