Union to Partition

Introductory Transcript

Throughout the 19th century there had been periods of tension between Unionists, who wanted to keep the Union between Britain and Ireland, and Nationalists, who wanted to end this Union.

One of the most intense was the early 1900s. By 1914 there was a real possibility of civil war in Ireland between Nationalists and Unionists. Many historians believe that after the events of 1912-14 the Partition of Ireland was simply a matter of time.

Civil war was only prevented by the outbreak of the Great War. Both Nationalists and Unionists sent forces to fight in the war in Europe. Both hoped to avoid Partition but on their own terms, with their vision for Ireland triumphant.

But in 1916 conflict came to Ireland as radical Nationalists took up arms against British rule and declared that Ireland was a Republic. These events took Ireland further along the road to Partition, although not everyone realised this at the time.

Investigation

What lay behind these conflicts and why did they bring Ireland closer to its eventual Partition in 1921-22? These two investigations will help you to understand this important issue.

To answer this question fully you will also have to refer to the Home Rule section.

The Assignment and Exercise will help you to understand this important issue.

Assignment

Exercise