Designed to serve as a "primer" for those who will be examining the extensive literature dealing with Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland: The Context for Conflict and for Reconciliation describes the historical and contemporary circumstances which have given rise to the conflict in Northern Ireland. The book focuses upon the events of the twentieth century and describes key events, the significant people, and the most prominent organizations which have contributed to the conflict. It also examines the many efforts to achieve peace during the last two and one half decades of "The Troubles," and identifies several key issues which must be addressed by the British and Irish governments and the political parties involved in the talks which began in the fall of 1997 in Belfast.