Let’s bow down to Ireland, for our country has given these incredible things to the world, but how many did you already know about?
Ireland has given the world some great gifts and if you were looking for more great reasons to love the emerald isle, check out our list of the 20 famous things Ireland gave to the world.
20. Chocolate milk – our sweet drink
If there are two things we love in Ireland, it is chocolate and milk. So, of course, an Irish man would inevitably combine the two to create a fantastic sweet beverage known across the world.
19. Croquet – our sports
Croquet is a game enjoyed by many across the globe and is most commonly associated with Britain, but it actually originates on Ireland’s west coast.
18. Sparkling water – our fizzy mistake
Sparkling water was stumbled upon by mistake when an Irish professor searched for a cure for scurvy, and today it is a beverage loved by many.
17. Rubber soles – our best footwear
An Irish man in New York is said to have invented the rubber sole, something we take for granted every day but would be lost without.
16. Tractors – our farming aid
Thanks to Harry Ferguson, an Irishman from County Down, the modern tractor came about and is something that has changed the face of contemporary agriculture around the world.
15. The cure for leprosy – our medical invention
Vincent Barry, an Irishman searching for a cure for tuberculosis in Ireland, stumbled upon the cure for leprosy instead, which saved millions of lives.
14. Portable defibrillator – our lifesaver
One of the most famous things Ireland gave to the world is the all-important portable defibrillator, which is saving many lives to this day. One of the main things you didn’t know was invented in Belfast.
13. The transatlantic call – our gift of the gab
Nowadays, contacting our North American neighbours doesn’t take a second thought. Still, back in the day, an Irishman was behind the establishment of the Atlantic Telegraph Cable – a fantastic invention.
12. Rashers – our favourite ingredient
Next time you sit down to indulge in a slap-up fried breakfast wherever in the world you might be, remember that the bacon rasher is one of the most famous things Ireland gave to the world.
11. Colour photography – our clever inventions
Can you imagine if we never got the chance to witness photos with colour? Well, thanks to one wise Irish man, John Joly, we have been able to see the world in colour photos since 1894.
10. Aran wool sweaters – our style
Also known as the fishermen’s Irish sweater, this island-made jumper has become so famous for its quality, warmth and long-lasting wear, which makes them a winner with many.
9. Traditional Irish music – our culture
People come from everywhere to listen to authentic Irish music in Ireland, but this is something that can be found in many Irish pubs these days, bringing a genuine Irish atmosphere to the crowd.
8. Irish coffee – our luxurious coffee
Irish coffee, the whiskey-based coffee that can be found on menus worldwide, and you can thank Ireland for this – we just know how to create memorable drinks.
7. The submarine – our incredible invention
The submarine was one of the most famous things Ireland gave to the world, which changed how we could explore the underwater world – an outstanding design of its time.
6. The flavoured crisp – our favourite snack
Before Joseph Murphy invented the flavoured crisps, the only one that existed was salt flavour, so you can thank him for the variety we see today, from smokey bacon to salt and vinegar and beyond.
5. Irish pubs – our gift to the world
What can we say, Irish pubs are as famous as any pub in the world, and no matter where you go, it is always the place to have a great time – thanks to us!
4. Riverdance – our iconic dance
Ever since Riverdance took off, an interval act of Eurovision 1994, the show has toured the globe, and the upbeat music can be instantly recognised.
3. Penneys (Primark) – our shopping paradise
What many know as Primark is Penneys in Ireland, where it was created. Nowadays, you can find this fantastic shop around Europe and the USA.
2. Guinness – our iconic stout
Guinness is an iconic black stout that can be recognised instantly and found in bars in many countries, so of course, this is one of our most famous exports.
1. Ryanair – our airline
We love to moan about them. But, like it or not, Ryanair are the cheapest airline in the world. Plus, they’ve enabled so many to travel without breaking the bank. Good on you, Ryanair!
So, 20 famous things Ireland gave to the world, many of which are widely seen and used to this day. Now, how proud does this make you?
