The partition of Ireland in 1921-22 had many obvious intended consequences, but also not a few unintended ones. This paper begins by reviewing potential approaches to the analysis of the border and challenging some of the myths whose influence has been so pervasive. It continues by examining in outline the changing character of the Irish border since its creation: its creation, up to its physical appearance in 1921; its consolidation in the five decades that followed; and its steady transformation from about 1972 onwards. The paper concludes by suggesting an agenda for research in this area — one which is at once of great academic significance, but of even more vital public policy importance.

First presented at the MFPP workshop no. 1, University College Dublin, 16 April 2004, and presented in revised form at workshop no. 2, Queen’s University Belfast, 1 October 2004.

ti ab ke se co sp - 100715 RB.

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