BELFAST (AFP) - Northern Ireland came into being on May 3, 1921, as Ireland became independent from Britain and was split between pro-Ireland nationalists and pro-UK unionists, who hold the most power. Here is a timeline of its history.

'The Troubles' begin

On August 12, 1969, "The Troubles" begin with sectarian fighting in Londonderry between Catholic nationalists and Protestant unionists. Two days later, British troops are deployed.