Ulster Unionism is a political ideology that supports the maintenance of Northern Ireland's status as part of the United Kingdom. It emerged in the late 19th century and is primarily associated with the Protestant community in Northern Ireland, who often identify as British. Unionists advocate for the union between Northern Ireland and Great Britain, emphasizing loyalty to the British Crown. The movement has historical roots in the Irish Home Rule debates, where many Unionists opposed the idea of an independent Ireland. Over the years, Ulster Unionism has been linked to various political parties, notably the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which have played significant roles in Northern Ireland's governance.