Assuming that Northern Ireland's conflict is basically one between the competing ethnic identities of Irish nationalists and Ulster unionists, Mulholland (modern British history, Hertford College, Oxford, England) chronicles the violent political power struggles that took place under O'Neill's controversial premiership. Topics addressed include the politics of the Catholic and Protestant communities, the rise of Paisley, discrimination against Catholics and the development of the civil rights movement. Sources are wide-ranging and include newspapers, government and private papers (including O'Neill's private papers), and interviews with contemporary participants and observers. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
Centered on the dramatic premiership of Terence O'Neill, Northern Ireland at the Crossroads examines the most hopeful decade for Ulster Unionism this century. O'Neill's bold ambition to reach out to Catholics inspired optimism but also massive political instability. Though concerned with the drama and personalities of high politics, this book has much to say on popular attitudes in one of the world's most politicized societies. New light is shed on Paisleyism, discrimination, and the civil rights movement.
