The main focus of this book is the part played by Irish affairs in British political life. Opening with a brief survey of Anglo-Irish relations from the Middle Ages, it goes on to discuss the main events and issues in the journey towards Home Rule and independence. Throughout the book, the main areas of controversy and differing interpretations between historians are identified and considered. There is an analysis of the political manoeuvrings of successive governments over this period in the search for an Irish solution.