Scottish Highers History Britain and Ireland: To what extent was the role of t

Question

To what extent was the role of the British government the main reason for the outbreak of the Irish Civil War?

The Irish Civil War was a direct consequence of the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which was itself the result of the Irish War of Independence. Those who had signed the Treaty, headed by Michael Collins and Arthur Griffith formed a Provisional Government to oversee the handover of power from the British to the new Irish state. However, what brought about the civil war was the split in ranks of the IRA.

Role of the British government:

In early 1921, there appeared agreements between the British and Irish Republican forces. Negotiations were opened and ended in the signing of the Treaty.

The Treaty gave the six northern counties of Ireland a considerable degree of independence, the same within the British community as Australia or South Africa. Ireland became a Dominion of the British Empire. Additionally, there was much contention about the continued allegiance to the Crown. The Crown was to be represented by a Governor-General, causing further tension among Irish nationalists who felt betrayed.

Another factor surrounding the Treaty was the idea of a free state, where it marked the beginning of ongoing divisions between the new state and the UK populace.

Other factors that influenced the war include:
- Ideological disagreements regarding the Treaty.
- The question of representation, with many wanting to maintain ties with Britain.
- The debate over a republic versus remaining within the Empire.

Divisions were clearly present within the Dáil, councils, and among the IRA. Those that supported the Treaty, as Ireland now had an elected government, felt it was a step towards greater independence. The anti-Treaty Republicans opposed the Treaty, leading to violent conflict, insisting that it undermined Irish sovereignty.

Moreover, the role that figures like Michael Collins and Eamon de Valera played in the dispute over the Treaty is also crucial. Collins believed that this was the best chance to gain independence, whereas de Valera upheld traditional republican ideals, leading to even more friction within the leadership.

Finally, it is essential to understand the broader context of Irish nationalism and the complexities that stemmed from it, influencing individuals' stances on the treaty and their political actions after its signing.

To what extent was the role of the British government the main reason for the outbreak of the Irish Civil War? The Irish Civil War was a direct consequence of the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which was itself the result of the Irish War of Independence - Scottish Highers History - Question 19 - 2022

Role of the British Government

Other Factors Influencing the Outbreak

Divisions within Irish Leadership

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