Question

Do you think that politics and social divisions make a dangerous combination in a democracy? Explain in the context of Northern Ireland’s case.(do not give big answers please)...

Answer 1

Politics and social divisions makr a dangerous combination in the context of Northern Ireland because:-

1. Northern Ireland is deeply divided between Catholics and Protestants. It is predominantly Protestand (53 per cent). 44 percent of the people are Catholic.

2. The Protestants were represented by Unionists who wanted to remain with UK. The Catholics were represented by Nationalists who wanted Northern Ireland to be unified with the Republic of Ireland.

3. There was a bitter war between both parties which resulted in the loss of thousands of lives between the forces of UK, Unionists and Nationalists.

4. Finally in 1998 a treaty was signed between UK and the Nationalists and the latter suspended its struggle.