The Orange Order

The Orange Order is a Protestant fraternal organization founded in 1795 in Ireland. It was established to celebrate and promote the Protestant faith, particularly in relation to British identity and the legacy of the Battle of the Boyne in 1690, where Protestant forces defeated Catholics. The Order is known for its parades, particularly in Northern Ireland, which can stir tensions with the Catholic community. The organization's values emphasize loyalty to the British Crown and the promotion of Protestantism. While it plays a cultural role for many, it is also associated with sectarian divisions in the region.