The thesis examines, on a number of different levels, the contribution and response of Northern Ireland to the Cold War. Starting in 1945 and continuing to the early years of the Troubles, it covers some of the most intense moments of the international conflict and demonstrates there is more to the history of Northern Ireland in that period than the lead up to the outbreak of communal violence. It will also reveal the impact the global tension had not only at a local level in the West, but facilitate a study of it through the prism of a divided society. The first study comprehensively to examine attitudes in Northern Ireland towards the Cold War on a comparative basis, it reveals how the various elements of Northern Irish society responded. The approach adopted by local political parties, the Belfast press, the four main churches, students and other opinion formers is analysed, breaking new ground in nuclear attack planning, anti-communism and international relations.