Autorentext

Patrick McElvaney is an actuary who on retirement from the actuarial business resolved to pursue his interest in Northern Ireland history. With the 100th anniversary of Ian Paisley's birth occurring in 2026 Patrick McElvaney saw the need for this complete biography of his life.

Klappentext

Have you ever wondered how one man could be so influential in decades of political turbulence, religious upheaval, and social transformation?Dive deep into the life of Ian Paisley, a towering figure whose influence shaped Northern Ireland's landscape for over half a century. Ian Paisley: Preacher, Politician, and the Man Who Shaped a New Northern Ireland takes readers on an intimate journey through his life-from his humble beginnings in 1926, through the founding of the Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster in 1951, and the rise of his political career which lead to the formation of the Democratic Unionist Party in 1971.Throughout the Troubles, and following the Belfast Good Friday Agreement of 1998, Ian Paisley remained a steadfast-yet controversial-figure, blending uncompromising religious beliefs with a commanding political presence. Patrick McElvaney masterfully chronicles both the preacher and the politician, exploring how Paisley's faith and determination shaped his decisions, polarised communities, and ultimately left an indelible mark on Northern Ireland's history.This compelling biography is a must-read for history buffs and political enthusiasts seeking to understand the complexities of Northern Ireland's struggles, triumphs, and the enigmatic character of Ian Paisley.Discover the man behind the pulpit, the political leader behind the headlines, and the legacy that continues to provoke passion and debate.