Western Cork, Ireland has a long and rich history. It has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with evidence of Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements found in the area. During the Iron Age, the area was part of the kingdom of Corcu Loígde, a powerful kingdom in the south of Ireland. In the 6th century, the area was invaded by the Uí Liatháin, a powerful dynasty from the north of Ireland. The area was then invaded by the Vikings in the 9th century, and the Normans in the 12th century. During the 16th century, the area was part of the Kingdom of Desmond, a powerful Gaelic kingdom. The area remained a part of the Kingdom of Desmond until the 17th century, when it was annexed by the English Crown. Since then, the area has been part of the Republic of Ireland. Throughout its history, Western Cork has been an important area for trade, industry, and culture.