Abstract

This article reports findings from two studies of students’ perceptions of identity and national history in Northern Ireland. These findings indicate that students identify with a wide range of historical topics and that they consider school the most important influence on their understanding of national history. Findings further indicate, however, that students’ historical identifications narrow during Key Stage 3 and become increasingly focused on Protestant/Unionist or Catholic/Nationalist heritage. The article considers the implications of these findings for history education in the region.