Protestant Unionist Party facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Protestant Unionist Party
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|---|---|
| Leader | Ian Paisley |
| Founded | 1966 |
| Dissolved | 1971 |
| Preceded by | Ulster Protestant Action |
| Succeeded by | Democratic Unionist Party |
| Ideology | British unionism British nationalism Conservatism (British) |
| Political position | Right-wing |
| Religion | Fundamentalist Protestantism |
| Colours | Red, White and Blue |
The Protestant Unionist Party (PUP) was a political party in Northern Ireland. It was active from 1966 to 1971. This party was a unionist group. It wanted Northern Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom. The PUP was the party that came before the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). It grew out of a group called Ulster Protestant Action (UPA). Ian Paisley started and led both the PUP and the Free Presbyterian Church of Ulster.
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About the Protestant Unionist Party
The Protestant Unionist Party was formed in 1966. It was led by Ian Paisley, a well-known figure in Northern Irish politics. The party's main goal was to keep Northern Ireland connected to the United Kingdom. This idea is known as unionism. They also supported Protestant traditions and values.
Early Elections and Growth
Before the PUP, the Ulster Protestant Action (UPA) had two members elected to the Belfast City Council. In 1967, these two members were re-elected. This time, they ran as PUP candidates.
In January 1969, the PUP took part in the 1969 Northern Ireland general election. They put forward six candidates. These candidates ran against the main party at the time, the Ulster Unionist Party. The PUP received over 20,000 votes. However, they did not win any seats in the Northern Ireland parliament.
Winning Seats
In 1970, Northern Ireland's Prime Minister, Terence O'Neill, left his job. Another politician also stepped down. This created two empty seats in the parliament. The PUP chose candidates to run for these two seats. Both of their candidates won!
Ian Paisley and another Free Presbyterian minister, William Beattie, were elected. Paisley became the PUP leader, and Beattie was his deputy. In the same year, Paisley was also elected to the House of Commons in the UK Parliament. He represented the area of Antrim North.
Party Goals and End
The Protestant Unionist Party strongly supported the Union. This meant they wanted Northern Ireland to stay part of the United Kingdom. They also wanted complete freedom for Orange parades. These parades are an important part of Protestant culture in Northern Ireland.
The PUP officially closed down in 1971. Later that year, in October, it became the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP).
