Currently, the world stands at a dangerous precipice in the annals of humanity. These troubles are so serious that all nations are affected, whether economically or politically. Since 2008, economic turmoil unprecedented since the Great Depression has afflicted global markets, turning already poor countries into have-nots and forcing rich countries to make painful cuts to vital government programs. Sometimes, however, these efforts have not been enough and have led many countries to accept or launch their own bailout programs (Greece, Ireland, Portugal, the United States and China). The political atmosphere around the world is no better, especially with the United States involved in three different conflicts abroad, an emerging Chinese military power, a resurgent Russia, the Jasmine Revolution (Arab Spring), tensions between Pakistan and India and Iran. The article focuses on analyzing and determining past and current events relating to the historical, economic and political makeup of Ireland and Northern Ireland that could mean the return of the Irish Republican Army (IRA ) as a terrorist organization, political entity, or both. . To better understand whether any of these scenarios are even possible in today's times, we need to look at the big picture in sections. First, the history of the formation of Ireland and Northern Ireland as states independent of each other but still under the authority of Great Britain. Second, any current economic and/or political divide between the two states that could provoke the outbreak of hostilities. Third, the current capabilities of the IRA and whether there are splits within the organization from the middle of the paper to the folds of the organization. This type of open recruitment, however, seems counterproductive since it does not mention whether there is a screening process through which each new recruit is put through to determine whether or not they are real spies working for the intelligence services. Financially supporting an armed resistance movement that is greatly outnumbered and outgunned by an aggressor with superior capabilities is a costly and timely effort to say the least. Works Cited Cockburn, C. (nd). The soc.culture.celtic FAQ. Retrieved from http://www.ibiblio.org/gaelic/sccfaq.htmlFletcher, H. (May 21, 2008). Ira splinter groups. Retrieved from http://www.cfr.org/terrorist-organizations/ira-splinter-groups-uk-separatists/p9239Ireland country profile. (March 12, 2011). Retrieved from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/country_profiles/1038581.stm