Irish nationalism

An Irish nationalist is generally one who seeks (greater) independence of Ireland from Great Britain, including since 1921 the goal of a United Ireland. The nationalist position is often contrasted with that of Unionists.

In the 19th century most Irish people were in favour of Home Rule – an Irish parliament within the United Kingdom. Following the defeat of Charles Stewart Parnell and the Gaelic Revival, physical force republicanism became increasingly important and, after the Easter Rising of 1916, became the dominant force in Irish nationalism until independence for 26 of Ireland's 32 counties.

In Northern Ireland today the term is used to refer either to the Catholic population in general or specifically the supporters of the moderate Social Democratic and Labour Party led by Mark Durkan, to diffentiate them from Sinn Féin voters, known as Irish republicans. Originally, however, the term republican was applied to those who advocated the complete independence of Ireland from Great Britain while nationalist denoted those who would have been satisfied with Home Rule.

The parties widely recognized as representing the moderate nationalist tradition include Fine Gael and the SDLP.

Internal links

• Nationalism
• Pan-Celticism
• Modern Celts
• Celt
• Cultural imperialism
• Welsh nationalism
• Scottish nationalism
• Cornish nationalism
• Celtic Congress
• Celtic League
• List of active autonomist and secessionist movements