Northern Ireland: Conflict and Change

This book combines an examination of the historical context of the Northern Ireland conflict with an examination of the contemporary political situation and the peace process. It explores the issues behind the longevity of the conflict, and provides a detailed analysis of the attempts to create a lasting peace in Northern Ireland. With a comprehensive overview of the Anglo-Irish agreement, it places considerable emphasis upon the peace process of the 1990's and analyses the key factors that led to the development and the recent collapse of peace in Northern Ireland. All of these issues are examined in light of long-standing divisions such as national identity, religion and community. No prior knowledge of the subject is assumed throughout.