The Wolfhound Guide to the Shamrock - Softcover

Although the harp is the "official" emblem of Ireland, the shamrock is the symbol which most people, particularly abroad, associate with Ireland. According to legend this title's three-leafed plant was used by St Patrick to explain the mystery of the Holy Trinity of the Christian Church to the native Irish in the 5th century. Over the intervening centuries and particularly with global marketing in the latter half of the 20th century, the shamrock and Ireland have become inextricably linked. In this history of the shamrock the author looks at the origins of the link, the use of the symbol throughout Irish history and the depiction of Ireland during that time. It's use in emblems, such as the RUC badge and in corporate logos as in the Aer Lingus logo is also examined.