The primary Gaelic term for England is Sasana (pronounced “Sass-a-na”). This term derives from the Saxons, the Germanic peoples who settled in and dominated much of the island after the Roman withdrawal. A related term, Sacsanach (pronounced “Sack-sa-nach”), refers to an English person.
Understanding this terminology provides a glimpse into the historical relationship between Ireland and England. The use of a name derived from the Saxons reflects the historical impact of these Germanic tribes on both islands, albeit with distinct political and cultural outcomes. Examining such terms illuminates the rich tapestry of Irish history and its intertwined narrative with its larger neighbor. This nomenclature also underscores the importance of the Irish language in preserving a unique perspective on historical events and cultural interactions.