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A St. Patrick's Day Visitor

This week an Irish leader named Gerry Adams visits the U.S. to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. He comes at a tense time for his country.

Adams is the head of Sinn Fein (shin fane), a political group that is part of the Irish Republican Army. The I.R.A. has fought violently for Northern Ireland to win independence from England.

In September 1994 the I.R.A. promised to stop its terrorist attacks and begin peace talks. But it broke its promise on February 9 and set off a deadly bomb in London.

Last week English and Irish leaders resumed peace talks but banned Sinn Fein from these talks. While Adams may not agree with the I.R.A.'s actions, he remains close to the violent group. The U.S. has allowed Adams' visit, but not all Irish eyes will be smiling as he joins in New York City's St. Patrick's Day parade.

Next: Fear Invades Israel