Making Sense of the Troubles: The Story of the Conflict in Northern Ireland

Rating:
Summary: Best Historical Overview On The Northern Irish "Troubles"?
Review: David McKittrick and David McVea present a thoughtful, excellent overview of sectarian strife in Northern Ireland since the 1960's, giving a balanced look at both the Protestant and Catholic communities. They begin with a superb brief historical sketch on the origins and early history of Northern Ireland, chronicling its major events from its inception in 1921 through the 1960's. They offer many fascinating portraits of prominent British, Irish and Northern Irish politicians and terrorists, ranging from the likes of diehard Protestant minister Ian Paisley to former IRA member Gerry Adams. This is quite simply one of the best books I've read on recent Northern Irish history and may be the best historical overview on the origins and current state of "The Troubles".

Rating:
Summary: A little dry, but good perspectives
Review: I found this book to be a little bit dry at times, though on the other hand, the descriptions of the violence at the hands of both the IRA and other republican groups and by the Unionist/loyalist groups were quite graphic. Still, it was quite easy to keep up with who was who and who was on which side, something that can sometimes be a problem in a history book. The authors gave a pretty balanced perspective--I do think they were a little more on the Catholic side, but overall, it was balanced. I do wish they had gone more into the background. Why did the British send the Protestants to Catholic Ireland in the first place, and how did the two sides get along before the 20th century? This is glossed over, though I guess what information is given is sufficient. It does whet my appetite to know more, however.

Rating:
Summary: Excellent, balanced overview
Review: I read this before a trip to Northern Ireland this summer, where I met with politicians, community leaders and artists. After reading the book, I felt very comfortable with the main themes and events of the Troubles, and several people commented that I seemed particularly well-versed in the history of the conflict (I knew next to nothing even a year before my trip). The book is well-written and balanced, and gives a thorough introduction to the troubles. I recommend reading it after a brief overview of general Irish history (such as "Modern Ireland: A Very Short Introduction") and, of course, as much Joyce as time allows.

Rating:
Summary: Northern Ireland Eye Opener
Review: If you are like I was before I read this book knowing only that Northern Ireland was about some kind of Religious Conflicts and the IRA then you have so much more to learn about Northern Ireland as I have learned with this book. This book covers everything in an informative way to help one absorb the information and yet not feel inundated. The book also features a chronology of events for quick references, tables and a glossary section that serves as a refresh section for the mind when the abbreviations of political parties and organizations become to much to remember. I recommend this book highly for personal or academic reasons in learning about the troubles in Northern Ireland.

Rating:
Summary: The authors are experienced observers of these conflicts
Review: Making Sense Of The Troubles is a fine history of the conflicts that have taken place in Northern Ireland over the years: the authors are experienced observers of these conflicts and consider the struggles from 1921-1963, from political stalemates to dissents into violence, accords, and the modern peace process. An essential survey for any interested in the history of Northern Ireland's problems

Rating:
Summary: Well-researched, insightful, & highly accessible
Review: Making Sense Of The Troubles: The Story Of The Conflict In Northern Ireland by prize winning journalist David McKittrick and Northern Ireland political expert David McVea is a well-researched, insightful, highly accessible account of what really happened and why in the turmoil of Northern Ireland's history, especially during the last century. A mediated, sober, straightforward analysis, Making Sense Of The Troubles espouses hope that the violence in Northern Ireland will continue its recent decline yet cautions against tension, economic woes and other factors that exacerbate hostility. A meaningful book featuring a detailed chronology as well as a glossary and index, Making Sense Of The Troubles is highly recommended for the non-specialist general reader who seeks to better understand the politically charged and confrontational events in Northern Ireland throughout the decades of the twentieth century.