The sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland, often referred to as “The Troubles,” is deeply rooted in a complex history of division, displacement, and political disenfranchisement. From the early 17th century, policies like the Plantation of Ulster created lasting tensions by redistributing land to Protestant settlers, sowing seeds of mistrust between the Catholic nationalist and Protestant unionist communities. This historical grievance was compounded by decades of systemic inequalities in housing, employment, and political representation, fueling resentment that turned violent by the late 20th century.

Key factors that intensified the conflict include:

  • Religious and ethnic identity intertwining with…