"The dual function - the voice of national identity and a political party - has played a determining role in the unique history of Sinn Fein. From its origins as an intellectual and political ginger group, founded by Arthur Griffith at the beginning of the last century to foster independence from the British Empire. Sinn Fein has today become a powerful force in Ireland, North and South, led by Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness." "This book traces Sinn Fein's zigzag path towards constitutional politics, presents a critical analysis of Sinn Fein's personalities and policies over the century and shows how it has arrived at last in government in the North with hopes of a future role in coalition in the Republic and confidently predicting a united Ireland."--BOOK JACKET.