The Differences Between Northern & Southern Ireland

• Ireland is an ancient land, but with many differences between the two countries that divide its island. Design Pics/Valueline/Getty Images

  Until the 1920s, Ireland was one united region, with a history going back many centuries. Political strife and many years of conflict, however, led to the island being divided into Northern Island and the Republic of Ireland, which is sometimes called Southern Island. While the two countries have many similarities, there are several notable differences as well.

Monarchy vs. Free Land

• The Republican of Ireland rules itself, making its own political decisions. Northern Ireland, however, remains under the rule of Great Britain and its monarchy.

Religion

• The two countries observe different religious practices, with the Republic of Ireland being a nation of Catholics, while Northern Ireland is mostly Protestant.

War Zone

• While the Republic of Ireland is a peaceful place for the greater part, religion and politics have led to great strife in Northern Ireland. Approximately one-quarter of the residents of Northern Ireland are Catholics and consider Britain's rule to be an unnecessary and unwanted occupation. That puts them at odds with the Protestants of Northern Island, who are content to remain under British rule. That religious divide led to several decades of strife in Northern Ireland, which at times seemed on the verge of tearing itself apart. Political agreements have been reached with Great Britain, however, that may finally bring the violence to an end.

Culture

• While much of the culture of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is intertwined, there are a few differences. Southern Ireland tends to put more influence on its traditional Irish culture; Northern Island, with the hand of the monarchy upon her, is more influenced by British culture.

Size

• The Republic of Ireland, with six times as many square miles, is much bigger than Northern Ireland.

Currency and measurement

• Ireland is an ancient land, but its division into two countries has created several notable differences between the north and the south. Trim castle, Ireland image by MD from Fotolia.com

  The two Irelands have different standards for their currency. Southern Ireland goes with the Euro; Northern Ireland, again showing the influence of British rule, has the pound as its currency. Additionally, Southern Ireland used the metric system, while Northern Ireland uses the imperial system, with miles and pounds.