Causes and Consequences of the Economic War between Britain and the Irish Free State (1932-38)

These flashcards cover the causes, impacts, and outcomes of the Economic War between Britain and the Irish Free State as discussed in the lecture.

What triggered the Economic War between Britain and the Irish Free State in 1932?

The Irish Free State stopped payment of land annuities worth £5 million a year, which were resented by Irish farmers.

What was the British response to the Irish Free State's refusal to pay land annuities?

Britain imposed a 20% duty on Irish imports.

How did De Valera respond to Britain's 20% duty on Irish imports?

He imposed a 20% duty on British goods imported to the Free State.

What was the impact of the Economic War on Éire's trade with Britain?

There was a 90% decrease in trade with Britain, leading to a loss of £48 million.

What was one of the industries that benefited from the Economic War?

The peat industry benefited from scarcity of coal.

What was the overall effect of the Economic War on Irish farmers?

They faced a 35% reduction in cattle exports, overproduction of beef, falling cattle prices, and many went bankrupt.

What measures did the government of Éire take to support farmers during the Economic War?

They offered grants to encourage the production of new crops like sugar beet and wheat.

What did the Coal-Cattle Pact of 1935 achieve?

It improved trade between Britain and Éire.

How did Britain’s economy compare to Éire’s during the Economic War?

Britain suffered less due to its diverse economy.

What was the significance of the Anglo-Irish Agreements of 1938?

They ended the Economic War, removed import duties, and Éire paid Britain a lump sum of £10 million for land annuities.

What did Britain return to Éire as part of the Anglo-Irish Agreements?

All three Treaty Ports: Cobh, Berehaven, and Lough Swilly.

What was Chamberlain's hope regarding the Anglo-Irish Agreements?

He hoped to improve Anglo-Irish relations and make Éire a British ally in case of war.

What concerns did Churchill and Northern Ireland's Prime Minister James Craig have regarding the return of the Treaty Ports?

They believed it might weaken the security of the British Isles.

What role did the Economic War play in Irish nationalism?

It heightened national consciousness and resentment towards Britain, reinforcing the push for independence.

What were the long-term economic effects of the Economic War on Ireland?

The disruptions led to a shift in Irish agriculture, promoting self-sufficiency and diversification in industry.

How did the Economic War affect Irish public opinion towards Britain?

There was increased animosity and a desire to assert economic independence from Britain.

What was one consequence of the reduction in cattle exports during the Economic War?

The surplus of beef caused significant price drops, leading to financial strain for many farmers.

How did the Éire government respond to the financial crisis during the Economic War?

They implemented price controls on essential goods to stabilize the economy.

What was the significance of the 1938 Anglo-Irish Agreements beyond trade?

They symbolized a thaw in relations and represented a step towards greater sovereignty for Éire.

What economic strategy did Éire adopt post-Economic War?

They focused on modernization and improving industries to reduce reliance on Britain.

What impact did the return of Treaty Ports have on Irish defense?

It allowed Éire to have better control over its maritime borders and security.

How did the Economic War influence agricultural policy in Éire?

It led to more government involvement in agriculture, including subsidies and support for

When did the Economic War between Britain and the Irish Free State begin?

The Economic War began in 1932.

What was the value of land annuities that the Irish Free State stopped paying to Britain?

The land annuities were worth £5 million a year.

By what percentage did trade between Éire and Britain decrease during the Economic War?

There was a 90% decrease in trade with Britain.

What was the total financial loss due to the Economic War for Éire?

The loss amounted to £48 million.

In what year was the Coal-Cattle Pact signed?

The Coal-Cattle Pact was signed in 1935.

How much did Éire pay Britain as part of the Anglo-Irish Agreements in 1938?

Éire paid a lump sum of £10 million.

What date did the Anglo-Irish Agreements occur, marking the end of the Economic War?

The Anglo-Irish Agreements were signed in 1938.

What was the approximate percentage reduction in cattle exports faced by Irish farmers during the Economic War?

Irish farmers faced a 35% reduction in cattle exports.

In what year did Éire's government introduce grants to support new crop production during the Economic War?

Grants were introduced during the Economic War, starting from 1932.

What economic impact did the surplus beef from reduced cattle exports have on prices?

The surplus caused significant price drops for beef