Irish reforms in the 1830s/40s

What became O’Connell’s top priority after the 1829 emancipation act?

The repeal of the act of union

What issues did O’Connell face with his new focus? (3)

His parliamentary influence was very weak and his co-operation with the Whigs was not fruitful

The m/c jumped ship from the catholic association, leaving only the w/c to campaign (think what happened to the BPU after the GRA)

The Irish electorate was tiny (little political influence) and so it was hard to rally them

When and what was the Coercion act and why was it problematic? (YEAR) (3)

1833

Basically just put Ireland under Martial law (e.g. military policing) and banned all public gatherings

Although it reduced crime it was very unpopular for its authoritarian nature

When and what was the Irish church act? (YEAR) (3)

1833

Reformed the church of Ireland (which would later be abolished in 1869 anyways), abolished 10 sees (Bishop seats), 2 of which belonged to archbishops

Repurposed CofI funds for secular purposes

Who was Thomas Drummond and what did he do? (3)

He was Peel’s Irish secretary and was also Catholic!

He established an Irish police force and helped to appoint more Catholics to high office.

He also curbed the power of protestant extremists from the orange order.

When and what was the Tithe commutation act? (YEAR) (2)

1836

tithes replaced by a tax system in which 1/10 of your wage was taken (so basically still a tithe but shush)

When and what was the Devon Commission? (YEARS) (3)

1843-5

Set up to investigate issues with land leases and found huge corruption and overcharging

Sparked long-term change but happened too late at the time

Who was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Ireland in 1844 and what did he do? (3)

Heytesbury

Granted concessions to Irish Catholics rather than upholding protestant ascendancy

Was in control of the poor law and railways among other things

When and what was the provincial college bill? (YEAR) (3)

1844

Set up 3 secular (i.e. not controlled by the church) colleges in Belfast Cork and Galway

Opposed by both ultra Tories and Catholics

When and what was the Maynooth Grant? (YEAR) (3)

1845

£30,000 to rebuild the catholic church and train their priests to try and gain their loyalty

Rejected by 149 tory backbenchers, made the ultra tories the most upset they had been in a while