Background Information on Northern Ireland Society

Introduction

This section contains links to a range of material in the CAIN Archive which will provide users with background information on Northern Ireland society. The main intention is to provide a context within which users can consider the core material in the main sections on the Northern Ireland conflict.

The violence that occurred in Northern Ireland had a direct and obvious impact on certain aspects of life in the region most notably the security response and the conduct of politics. However 'the Troubles', and the underlying divisions in the community, had an impact to varying degrees on most aspects of life in the region. In addition the conflict has been reflected in things such as the arts and literature.

The material available at the links below includes, key facts and figures on demographic and socioeconomic aspects of the society in which 'the Troubles' occurred. This information has been gathered from official statistics as well as research reports. Most of the statistical information was compiled in 1996-1997 with the aim of indicating what society was like when the violence was on-going. Only some of the tables have been update; more up-dating may be done in the future. There are also links to articles on the particular topics, and images as in the case of murals. The main headings are listed in alphabetical order. [For current statistical information see: NI Statistics and Research Agency, NISRA]