This paper is an attempt to explain the reasons for the
conflict between Ireland and Great Britain. It examines the conflict
from a psychological point of view, but the
Conflict is best understood from a
historical perspective, thus the reason for the timeline and extensive historical references. The author of this paper refers to various issues in the conflict including the geographical proximity between the two countries, the Rebellion of Hugh O'Neill, The Plantation of Ulster, penal laws, The Act of Union, the Great Famine, Home Rule, the Easter Uprising, the Partitioning of Ireland, conflict in Northern Ireland and peace talks. Table of Contents Credit where credit is due Foreword A Political Overview The Geographical Proximity Geopolitical Divisions A Historical Overview The Birth of the Conflict Timeline 1595 - The Rebellion of Hugh O'Neil 1608 - Plantation of Ulster 1698 - Penal Laws 1800 - Act of Union 1845 - Great Famine 1870 - Home Rule 1916 - The Easter Rising 1916 - The Proclamation of the Republic 1920 - Partitioning of Ireland A Psychological Overview The Conflict in Northern Ireland Political Parties The Peace Talks Conclusions References