Evangelicalism and National Identity in Ulster, 1921-1998

Patrick Mitchel

Controversial - it challenges particularly Paisleyism and Orangeism within terms of their own belief systems
Innovative - it offers an fresh interpretation of Paisleyism from previous theories of Bruce, Smyth, and Taylor
Provides a rounded picture of Ulster Evangelicalism by fresh or new analysis of other, unresearched or overlooked, Evangelical identities
Focuses on key contemporary themes of belonging, identity and culture
Offers an inside look at an important component of Northern Irish society which in turn provides a valuable context for understanding increasing Protestant fragmentation in the Peace Process era
Takes religion seriously as a factor in the conflict in Northern Ireland and shows how, for Evangelicals, radically differing interpretations of what the Bible says to the conflict are vital to understanding Evangelical attitudes and actions in the post-Good Friday Agreement era
Unique comparative assessment of the interaction between religion and nationalism in Northern Ireland.
Includes comments on recent events - for example, the current suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly

Evangelicalism and National Identity in Ulster, 1921-1998

Patrick Mitchel

Description

Evangelical Protestantism in Ulster is the most influential and historically significant sector of Christianity in Northern Ireland. It is often associated only with the controversial figure of Ian Paisley, but this book includes fresh analysis of a spectrum of Evangelical opinion. Covering the period from Partition in 1921 to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, Patrick Mitchel explores why and how Evangelical Christians are deeply divided over politics, national identity, and the current Peace Process. The result is an original and significant study that provides an invaluable guide to understanding both the past and contemporary mindset of Ulster Protestantism.

Evangelicalism and National Identity in Ulster, 1921-1998

Patrick Mitchel

Introduction
Part 1. Nationalism, Identity, and Unionism
1. Of Nations and Nationalism
2. National Identity and the Appeal of Nationalism
3. Paradise Lost?: The Rise and Fall of Ulster Unionism
Part 2. Shades of Orange: Differing Versions of Ulster Evangelicalism
4. Gospel Truth: Describing Evangelicalism
5. Marching Backwards: The World of Orangeism
6. Ourselves Alone: Paisleyism and the Politics of Purity
7. Generating Distance?: The Changing Identity of Irish Presbyterianism
8. A Balancing Act: The Evangelicals of ECONI
Conclusion