The Irish Revolution

By: Nick Burgess

About the Revolution

The term Irish Revolution refers to the period 1912-1922 when Ireland (Southern) gained independence from the United Kingdom.

Northern Ireland chose not to join Free Ireland, instead they stayed in the United Kingdom.

Two main opponents: Nationalists and Unionists, and later on Pro-Treaty and Anti-Treaty.

Chronology

i. 1914-1918: War World I

ii. 1916:

The Easter Rising

iii. 1919:

The Dail declare Ireland independent of Great Britain

iv. 1920:

Bloody Sunday, Burning of Cork

v. 1921:

Anglo-Irish Treaty signed

vi. 1922:

Dail split in two: Pro-Treaty and Anti-Treaty, violence ensues

vii. 1923:

Rebels disband, Irish Free State formed

Biography

Sir Edward CarsonUnionists leader. Political leader.

Goes on to become a judge.

Eamon de Valera

Anti-treaty leader and a leader of the Nationalists.

Political leader.

Analysis

The Irish Revolution was split into three parts. It was mainly fought between Ireland and

Great Britain. Factions could split against each other in a

matter of years. Ireland remains split between Ireland and

Northern Ireland.

Comparison with French Revolution Ireland Unionists vs.

Nationalists, Pro-Treaty and Anti- Treaty

No guillotine Not as much bloodshed Main place: Dublin

France Girodins vs. Mountains

Guillotine Let the blood flow! Main place: Paris