Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom located in the north-east of the island of Ireland, sharing a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west. Here are some key details:
History
- Partition of Ireland: Northern Ireland was established in 1921 when Ireland was partitioned into two separate jurisdictions. This came about due to the Government of Ireland Act 1920, which created the Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland parliaments.
- The Troubles: From the late 1960s to 1998, Northern Ireland experienced a period of conflict known as The Troubles, involving nationalist/republican groups like the IRA seeking a united Ireland, and unionist/loyalist groups advocating for the region's continued union with the UK.
- Good Friday Agreement: The conflict was largely resolved with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, which led to the establishment of devolved government in Northern Ireland.
Politics
- Devolved Government: Northern Ireland has its own devolved government, the Northern Ireland Assembly, which deals with local issues such as education, health, and policing.
- Power-Sharing: The system requires power-sharing between the two main communities, unionists (who wish to remain part of the UK) and nationalists (who seek a united Ireland).
Culture and Society
- Identity: The region has a complex cultural identity with both British and Irish influences. There are significant communities identifying with either British or Irish nationality, or both.
- Symbols: Cultural symbols like the Union Flag, St. Patrick's Day, and the Northern Ireland Flag (Ulster Banner) reflect this diversity.
- Sport: Sports like Gaelic Games, soccer, and rugby are popular, with the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) playing a significant role in fostering Irish identity.
Economy
- Sectors: The economy includes agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services. Belfast, the capital, is known for shipbuilding, particularly for the construction of the RMS Titanic.
- EU and Brexit: The Brexit process has had significant implications for Northern Ireland due to its unique position within the UK and its border with the EU member state, the Republic of Ireland.
Geography
Sources