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Would you agree that there was considerable social and economic change in Northern Ireland, 1949-1969, but that nothing changed politically? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2015
Question 1
Would you agree that there was considerable social and economic change in Northern Ireland, 1949-1969, but that nothing changed politically?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Would you agree that there was considerable social and economic change in Northern Ireland, 1949-1969, but that nothing changed politically? - Leaving Cert History - Question 1 - 2015
Step 1
Considerable social and economic change
Answer
Between 1949 and 1969, Northern Ireland experienced significant social and economic transformations. The post-World War II era brought about industrial growth, driven largely by the shipbuilding and textile sectors. This economic boom facilitated rising employment and urban development, particularly in cities like Belfast. Additionally, demographic shifts occurred, with an increase in the Catholic population leading to changes in community dynamics.
Socially, the period marked a gradual movement toward greater civil rights awareness, particularly among the Catholic minority who faced discrimination in housing, employment, and political representation. Organizations like the Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association (NICRA) emerged, advocating for equal rights and highlighting social injustices.
Step 2
Political stagnation despite social change
Answer
Despite these social and economic changes, the political landscape remained largely unchanged. The Unionist government continued its policies of exclusion, maintaining a strong grip on power and neglecting the rising calls for reform. The electoral system remained biased, heavily favoring Unionist representatives at the expense of Nationalist interests.
This political inertia contributed to growing tensions, culminating in the emergence of the civil rights movement. The lack of political responsiveness exacerbated grievances, ultimately leading to unrest in Northern Ireland and setting the stage for the conflict that followed.