Academics from Queen's University in Belfast are part of a team of leading historians from around the world who have contributed to one of the most wide-ranging and authoritative compilations of Irish history.
The four volume Cambridge History of Ireland presents the history of the island from c.600- to the present.
It features the work of 103 contributors from 39 countries and runs to 3,200 pages.
Professor Peter Gray from Queen's was part of the team. He wrote the chapter on his specialist subject - the Great Famine.
"I think this is a kind of a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the historical profession here in Ireland and across the world to put together our thoughts," he told the BBC's Good Morning Ulster.
Given the subject matter it is hardly surprising that the history has a pronounced political backbone.
But it also covers the full range of social, economic, religious, linguistic, military, cultural, artistic and gender history.
Prof Gray says some of the emerging areas of historical research form an important aspect of the volumes.
These include the history of the Irish family, sport and leisure, and material culture - which he describes as the "stuff" of history.
At a recent ceremony in Dublin Castle to mark the publication of the history, he President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, expressed concern at the diminished emphasis on the teaching of history in schools.
He said he shared the "deep and profound concern" of professional historians at this trend.
President Higgins described the publication as "an intellectual riposte to those who doubt the vital importance of the study of history".
Irish people are often criticised for "living in the past", but Prof Gray can see the relevance of an understanding of the past when considering current issues, such as Brexit.
"We're very conscious of the importance of the past to the present and debates in the present about British-Irish relationships," he told the BBC.
The four volumes will cost you in the region of £350 so libraries will most likely be the first customers, but readers may be spared the trip to their local branch.
"We'll be bringing out a digital edition that will be more affordable and accessible," said Prof Gray.
Source: BBC
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