In my paper I would like to investigate on the question whether the Northern Ireland Conflict really has to do with the `denominational conflict` or whether this is just part of the issue. I would like to argue that the causes for the conflict cannot be reduced to the religious component only. Moreover, it is important to have a look on power and politics in Northern Ireland to be able to discuss the conflict and its consequences.
My purpose here is to give a brief historical account of Ireland and Britain, then proceed synchronically by reference to present interests, ideologies and identities. Here, I will only briefly outline the issues and problems people were faced with. The main part of my investigation will cover the analysis of the conflict with the main focus being on religion. Therefore, I will start with the examination of the importance of religion in the Northern Ireland conflict. After introducing the concept of community which is essential for the interpretation, further dimensions including ethnicity, settler and native, nationalism and unionism will be analyzed. Finally, my inquiry will close with pointing out the connection and contribution of the different aspects to the conflict.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- INTRODUCTION
- HISTORICAL ACCOUNT
- Old Ireland
- Religious Polarization
- Movements
- Easter Rising
- Londonderry
- Good Friday Agreement
- ANALYSIS OF THE CONFLICT
- The role of religion
- Community in Northern Ireland
- Dimensions of difference
- CONCLUSION
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper explores the role of denomination in the Northern Ireland conflict. The paper investigates whether the conflict truly stems from "denominational conflict" or if it is only a partial aspect of the issue. It argues that the conflict cannot be solely attributed to religious differences and examines the influence of power and politics on the conflict and its consequences.
- The historical development of the conflict in Northern Ireland
- The role of religion in the conflict
- The importance of community in understanding the conflict
- The influence of power and politics on the conflict
- The lasting impact of the conflict
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The paper begins with an introduction that sets the context of the Northern Ireland conflict and outlines its objectives. It then provides a historical account of Ireland and Britain, focusing on the origins of the conflict, including British colonization, religious polarization, and various movements for independence. The analysis of the conflict highlights the role of religion, the importance of community, and the various dimensions of difference that contribute to the conflict. The paper focuses on the historical context of the conflict, explaining the rise of religious and political tensions between Catholics and Protestants, and the role of power and politics in exacerbating these tensions.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key concepts explored in this paper include the Northern Ireland conflict, denomination, religion, community, power, politics, historical development, religious polarization, and the role of movements for independence. It examines the significance of these concepts in understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Northern Ireland conflict purely religious?
No, while religion is a key component, the conflict is deeply rooted in issues of power, politics, national identity, and historical colonization.
What is the significance of the "Good Friday Agreement"?
The 1998 agreement was a major milestone in the peace process, establishing a power-sharing government and addressing human rights and policing in Northern Ireland.
How did British colonization affect the conflict?
British colonization led to religious polarization and a divide between the native population and settlers, creating long-standing tensions over land and political control.
What is the difference between Nationalism and Unionism?
Nationalists (mostly Catholics) generally want a united Ireland, while Unionists (mostly Protestants) want Northern Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom.
What role does "community" play in Northern Ireland?
Community identity is central to the conflict, as it shapes individual ideologies, social circles, and political affiliations based on religious and cultural heritage.
- Quote paper
- Berina Hodzic (Author), 2015, The Role of Denomination in the Northern Ireland Conflict, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/336944
