The game of bridge, introduced to Ireland as a drawing room pastime at the end of the 19th century, subsequently developed to become an international sport. Bridge clubs appeared during the 1920s, and in 1932 it became a nationally organised competitive game. Politics caused a rift in the 1950s and the Northern Ireland troubles of the 1970s cast their own shadows. Political figures have historically been involved with bridge, including participants in the 1916 Rising, such as Roddy Connolly, son of James Connolly. The first Irish Bridge book and the product of ten years research brings the reader up to March 2009. Official records and print have been trawled to trace the origins of the game, the changes which it underwent and the external influences which inspired the pioneers of the modern Irish game. Initially an activity for middle class professionals with a Protestant majority, following the conflicts of the early 1920s it was embraced by the wider population and became a unifying force. A fascinating read for bridge aficionados and also those interested in social history.