How Ireland wrote the modern story of progress – the most educated country in the world

Two-thirds of homes still had no electricity after World War II, and, as late as 1961, most rural houses lacked indoor toilets or hot water. In 1961, Ireland’s population was just 2.8 million, the nadir after decades of decline going back to the 19th century.

Yet the country I visited had become one of the most prosperous and educated in Europe: a largely liberal, progressive society that now attracts immigrants instead of losing emigrants.

By some standards, Ireland can claim to be the most educated country in the world, with more than half its population between the ages of 25 to 64 holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Bryan Walsh