The publication in 1965 of J.C. Beckett's The Making of Modern Ireland was a milestone in the modern study of Irish history.
'This excellent book supersedes all previous histories of modern Ireland... admirably constructed and written with clarity and economy which carry the narrative unflaggingly through to the end .' New Statesman
'Technically this book is a masterly achievement... The presentation is not only learned but cool, objective, unimpassioned and yet almost always alive and compassionate as well... As a reference book alone it is immensely valuable... As an example of a humane, scholarly, expert history, Professor Beckett's book will be difficult to surpass.' D. B. Quinn, Belfast Telegraph
'One of the most remarkable single-volume histories of modern Ireland. It would be hard indeed to improve upon its lapidary style and concise lucidity... an achievement unusual in scope and authoritative in judgement.' Charles Townshend, History Today