The origins of Irish names are intermingled with the nation's long and often tragic past. Telling of invasion, famine, emigration and war, this book provides readers with a glimpse of the history behind 200 of Ireland's most commonly encountered surnames. It sheds light on the origins of the names, highlighting their geographical distribution and providing details of prominent family members. The book is illustrated with coats of arms and clan tartans as well as photographs of Ireland's landscapes, historic sites and artefacts. Other books by John Grenham An Illustrated History of Ireland Tracing Your Irish Ancestors.