Answer
Ireland was the birthplace and childhood home of Laurence Sterne, an acclaimed Irish novelist and Anglican clergyman. Born in Clonmel, County Tipperary, in 1713, Sterne spent his formative years in Ireland, where he received his early education and developed his literary sensibilities. The influence of his Irish upbringing is evident in his works, which often feature Irish characters and settings, and explore themes of Irish identity and culture.