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Difficulty: HardThe 1990s and the Good Friday Agreement

The 1990s marked a pivotal era for the United Kingdom, culminating in a 1998 landmark treaty signed by the UK and Irish governments. Which of the following correctly identifies this agreement and its primary significance for Northern Ireland?

  1. The Good Friday Agreement (also known as the Belfast Agreement), which established a framework for peace and a new power-sharing government.Answer
  2. B
    The Northern Ireland Act of 1997, which was designed to mirror the devolution processes simultaneously occurring in Scotland and Wales.
  3. C
    The Anglo-Irish Treaty, which resulted in the partition of Ireland and established the current constitutional status of the province.
  4. D
    The Sunningdale Agreement, which successfully ended the conflict by integrating the legal systems of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

Answer

The Good Friday Agreement (also known as the Belfast Agreement), which established a framework for peace and a new power-sharing government.
The correct answer identifies the Good Friday Agreement (also referred to as the Belfast Agreement) signed in 1998. It correctly notes its significance as the foundation for peace and the establishment of a power-sharing government in Northern Ireland, following negotiations between the UK and Irish governments.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the specific historical context
The question refers to a 1998 treaty between the UK and Irish governments regarding Northern Ireland.
Correctly placing the event in the 1990s peace process is essential for distinguishing it from earlier conflicts or later administrative changes.
2
Recall the dual nomenclature of the treaty
The 1998 accord is officially known as both the Good Friday Agreement and the Belfast Agreement.
Official exam materials frequently use both names to ensure candidates recognize the agreement regardless of the term used.
3
Differentiate from other 1990s constitutional changes
The Northern Ireland peace process (1998) is distinct from the devolution referendums in Scotland and Wales (1997).
While both involved decentralization of power, they had different origins, legal frameworks, and objectives.
4
Verify the primary objective
The goal was to end the 'Troubles' and establish a power-sharing executive in Northern Ireland.
This confirms the significance of the agreement as a peace-building measure rather than just an administrative update.

Key Concept

The Good Friday Agreement of 1998
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

The 1990s and the Good Friday Agreement

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