Political, religious, and socioeconomic divisions in Northern Ireland led to a complicated and lengthy conflict that lasted about three decades, from the late 1960s until the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. Protestant Unionists, who wanted Northern Ireland to remain a part of the United Kingdom, faced off against Catholic Nationalists, who wanted Ireland to become one country again.

Civil rights movements in the late 1960s were sparked by the Unionist-controlled government’s discriminatory policies toward the Catholic minority. As tensions between the two populations grew, peaceful rallies turned violent. Armed paramilitary organizations such as the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) arose, calling for the unification of Ireland by force.

Bombings, shootings, and other acts of terrorism occurred throughout The Troubles, leaving thousands dead and communities devastated. Nationalist factions and British security forces fought each other, and British military participation and contentious tactics fueled hatred on both sides.

Power-sharing agreements, demilitarization, and a dedication to nonviolent means of settling disagreements all stemmed from the historic Good Friday Agreement of 1998. Although the deal has helped to reduce tensions, they are still present. The tragic results of sectarian strife are still vividly remembered, and the lessons of diplomacy, reconciliation, and addressing the sources of conflict they teach are still relevant today.