Ireland in Ferment, 1912-1916 Flashcards

Flashcards about Irish Nationalism, Home Rule, and the 1916 Rising

What was the main goal of the Unionists in the early 20th century Ireland?

To maintain the union with Britain.

What was the primary objective of the Nationalists in Ireland during the period 1912-1916?

To end the union with Britain and establish Home Rule or an independent Ireland.

What is the difference between Physical Force and Constitutional Nationalism?

Constitutional Nationalism aimed to achieve Home Rule through political and parliamentary means, while Physical Force Nationalism advocated for complete Irish independence through violent rebellion.

What was Home Rule?

A limited self-government for Ireland within the British Empire, granting an Irish parliament the power to make laws for Ireland.

How did Unionists demonstrate their opposition to Home Rule?

Through mass demonstrations, the formation of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF), and the signing of the Solemn League and Covenant.

Why did so many Irishmen go to fight in World War I?

Unionists sought to show loyalty to the crown, while Nationalists aimed to secure Home Rule and defend Catholic Belgium; economic factors and social pressure also played a role.

Why did the IRB stage a rebellion in 1916?

The IRB believed that England's involvement in WWI presented an opportunity to strike for complete Irish independence and establish a republic.

Why did the rebellion fail?

Lack of widespread support and arms, poor coordination, and the swift and decisive response from the British military.

What was the impact of the 1916 Rising?

It led to a surge in support for Irish Republicanism, the execution of the leaders galvanized nationalist sentiment, and it ultimately paved the way for the War of Independence.

Who was Patrick Pearse?

An Irish teacher, barrister, poet, writer, nationalist and political activist who was one of the leaders of the Easter Rising in 1916.

What was the Curragh Mutiny?

An event in March 1914 where British army officers threatened to resign rather than use force against Ulster Unionists.

Name two leaders of the Unionist opposition to Home Rule.

Edward Carson and James Craig.

What was the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF)?

A paramilitary organization formed in 1913 to oppose Home Rule in Ireland.

What was the Solemn League and Covenant?

A pledge signed by Ulster Unionists in 1912 to resist Home Rule by any means necessary.

What was the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB)?

A secret, oath-bound organization committed to achieving Irish independence through physical force.

Who was John Redmond?

The leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party, advocating for Home Rule through constitutional means.

What role did Eoin MacNeill play in the Irish Volunteers?

He founded the Irish Volunteers in response to the UVF, but tried to call off the 1916 Rising.

What was the 'Castle Document'?

A forged document used by the IRB to convince Eoin MacNeill and the Irish Volunteers to support the Easter Rising.

Name two leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising.

Patrick Pearse and James Connolly.

What was the Proclamation of the Irish Republic?

A document read by Patrick Pearse during the Easter Rising, declaring Ireland's independence from Britain.