What did the Irish nationalists want?

Modern Irish nationalism with democratic aspirations began in the 1790s with the founding of the Society of the United Irishmen. It sought to end discrimination against Catholics and Presbyterians and to found an independent Irish republic.

What is the conflict between Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland?

“The Troubles” refers to the three-decade conflict between nationalists (mainly self-identified as Irish or Roman Catholic) and unionists (mainly self-identified as British or Protestant). The word “troubles” has been used as a synonym for violent conflict for centuries.

When did Northern Ireland become Catholic?

Catholic Church Christianity had arrived in Ireland by the early 5th century, and spread through the works of early missionaries such as Palladius, and Saint Patrick.

Were there Catholics in Northern Ireland?

And while it is the Protestant-majority part of Ireland, at the time of the division, about a third of the Northern Irish were Catholic. While Northern Ireland had a clear Protestant majority when it was established, it also had a substantial Catholic minority—larger than many students realize, says Weaver.

Are there Protestant nationalists in Northern Ireland?

Protestant Irish nationalists are adherents of Protestantism in Ireland who also support Irish nationalism. In Northern Ireland, however, the vast majority of Ulster Protestants are unionist and vote for unionist parties.

What’s the meaning of nationalists?

1 : an advocate of or believer in nationalism. 2 : a member of a political party or group advocating national independence or strong national government. — compare black nationalist, white nationalist. nationalist.

What’s the difference between loyalists and unionists?

Although not all unionists were Protestant or from Ulster, loyalism emphasised Ulster Protestant heritage. Northern Ireland’s unionist governments were accused of discrimination against Catholics and Irish nationalists. Loyalists opposed the Catholic civil rights movement, accusing it of being a republican front.

When did the Nationalists and the UK Government arrive at an agreement?

The Belfast Agreement is also known as the Good Friday Agreement, because it was reached on Good Friday, 10 April 1998. It was an agreement between the British and Irish governments, and most of the political parties in Northern Ireland, on how Northern Ireland should be governed.

When did Northern Ireland become part of the UK?

In 1920 the British government introduced another bill to create two devolved governments: one for six northern counties (Northern Ireland) and one for the rest of the island (Southern Ireland). This was passed as the Government of Ireland Act, and came into force as a fait accompli on 3 May 1921.

Why did Northern Ireland join the UK?

The territory that became Northern Ireland, within the Irish province of Ulster, had a Protestant and Unionist majority who wanted to maintain ties to Britain. The Irish Home Rule movement compelled the British government to introduce bills that would give Ireland a devolved government within the UK (home rule).

Are there Protestant nationalists?

Protestant nationalists (or patriots, particularly before the mid-19th century) have consistently been influential supporters and leaders of various movements for the political independence of Ireland from Great Britain. All the various denominations of Protestantism in Ireland have had members involved in nationalism.