Soc 308 W5 Racial & Ethnic Groups D1

English involvement in Ireland dates back to 1171, when English King, Henry II invaded the island to expand his empire. Since then, politics in the region has been characterized by varying degrees of tension between Irish independence and British rule. This tension has often flared into violent conflict. As in other global situations, what might be more accurately described as a political and economic conflict has become an ethnic conflict, with opposing groups unified around cultural and religious identities.

Please respond to the following:

1. In your informed opinion, what events led to the peace agreements immediately preceding the current state of harmony?
2. Given the long history of conflict, is it likely that disputes between England and Ireland have been permanently resolved?
3. What can be done to decrease the chance of further conflict?
4. What does this example tell us about the social construction of ethnic identities?

Your initial post for each discussion should be a minimum of 250 words. Use scholarly sources to support your responses. Include citations and references in APA style.