Irish nationalism (Irish: Náisiúnachas Éireannach) refers to political and sociological movements and sentiment that embodies a love for Irish culture and language and a sense of pride in the island of Ireland. It also refers to a desire for greater autonomy or independence of Ireland from Great Britain after Britain annexed Ireland in 1801. Today in Northern Ireland, which still remains under British rule (unlike the fully independent Republic of Ireland), the nationalist position is often contrasted with that of Unionists. Irish nationalism, today in Northern Ireland, is largely associated with the Roman Catholic community in Northern Ireland. However, over recent centuries, Irish Nationalism included many prominent Irish Protestants who were just as patriotic as many Catholics.