US government shutdown: Why did it happen, what does it mean and how long will it last?

The US government shut down at midnight on Friday, meaning thousands of “non-essential” federal workers will be put on leave and not paid until a funding deal is reached.Senators blocked a bill to extend federal funding until 16 February despite huddled behind-the-scenes negotiations between leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell.The shutdown came on the one-year anniversary of Donald Trump’s inauguration as President, and as Republicans enjoy majorities in both the House an