The Partition of Ireland

The Partition of Ireland occurred in 1920-1921, splitting the island into two separate entities: Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland (which became the Irish Free State). This division was primarily along religious and political lines—mainly Protestant Unionists wanting to remain part of the UK and Catholic Nationalists seeking independence. Northern Ireland stayed with the UK, enjoying its own devolved government, while the south moved toward full independence. The partition aimed to address conflict but also created lasting divisions, fueling disputes and tensions that continue to influence Ireland and the UK today.