This phrase "religion of peace" is often applied to Islam, especially whenever there is a violent confrontation.
Your comments on Ireland are certainly valid. However, as a Judeo-Christian, I have rarely if ever, heard of this phrase "religion of peace" being applied to my faith. From Exodus to Masada, Gollaith to Gomera, to the destruction of Egypt's army, to an eye for an eye to Deuteronomy's [the Israelites] "utterly destroyed the men, women, and the little ones" leaving "none to remain."....to the Crusades and forced conversions of native peoples throughout the globe, I would hardly call Judeo-Christian religion one of peace. Instead it is one of violent retribution, sacrifice and coerced compliance.
History is littered with examples of violence committed in the name of religion.
Yes, but the difference is, that we continue to hear about Islam being a religion of peace, but we see corrupt dictatorships, abosolute monarchies, repression of democracy and women's rights, stonings, violent riots, etc... I think it's time for Islam to recognise, as much of the west already has, that they are, like most religions, based on violence, revenge and coercion.
What makes a large difference between Judeo-Christians and Muslims though is that a JC can leave his religion at home and seperate. This is not possible AFAIK for Muslims, either you are devout or you're not Muslim. Thus, North American who are Judeo-Christains can look at the "violence towards your enemy" in the Bible and discount it in today's pluralistic, free and western times, whereas, I'm not convinced that Muslims are permitted this interpreative freedom.