When was the Irish War of Independence?
The Irish War of Independence, also known as the Anglo-Irish War, was a guerrilla war fought between the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and the British government from 1919 to 1921. The war was a key event in Irish history, marking the end of British rule in Ireland and the establishment of the Irish Free State.
Background to the War
The Irish War of Independence was a direct result of the Irish independence movement, which had been growing in strength and popularity since the late 19th century. The movement was fueled by Irish nationalism and a desire for self-governance. In 1916, a group of Irish republicans, known as the Easter Rising, launched a rebellion against British rule in Dublin. Although the rebellion was put down, it galvanized support for the independence movement and paved the way for the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921.
The Outbreak of War
The Irish War of Independence began on January 21, 1919, when a group of IRA volunteers, led by Seán MacDermott, attacked a British convoy in County Tipperary. The attack was in response to the killing of a group of IRA prisoners by British forces in Dublin. The IRA, led by Michael Collins, launched a series of attacks on British forces and infrastructure, including the burning of customs houses and the destruction of telephone lines.
Key Events of the War
- The Tan War: The Irish War of Independence is often referred to as the "Tan War" due to the use of armored cars, known as "tanks," by the British forces. The Tans, as they were known, were heavily armed and armored vehicles that were used to patrol the countryside and quell Irish resistance.
- The Burning of Cork: In December 1920, the IRA launched a surprise attack on the city of Cork, burning down buildings and infrastructure. The attack was in response to the killing of a group of IRA prisoners by British forces.
- The Execution of Kevin Barry: In November 1920, Kevin Barry, a 19-year-old IRA volunteer, was executed by British forces for his role in the killing of a British soldier. Barry’s execution sparked widespread outrage and helped to galvanize support for the IRA.
- The Truce of July 1921: In July 1921, a truce was called between the IRA and the British government, marking the end of the Irish War of Independence.
The Treaty and its Aftermath
The Anglo-Irish Treaty, signed on December 6, 1921, established the Irish Free State, which was a Dominion of the British Empire. The treaty also provided for the partition of Ireland, with the six counties of Northern Ireland remaining part of the United Kingdom. The treaty was ratified by the Irish Parliament in January 1922, and the Irish Free State came into existence on January 16, 1922.
Significance of the War
The Irish War of Independence was a significant event in Irish history, marking the end of British rule in Ireland and the establishment of the Irish Free State. The war also had a profound impact on the Irish people, who had been fighting for independence for centuries. The war also led to the partition of Ireland, which would have significant consequences for the country in the decades that followed.
Timeline of the Irish War of Independence
- January 21, 1919: The Irish War of Independence begins with an attack on a British convoy in County Tipperary.
- December 1920: The IRA launches a surprise attack on the city of Cork, burning down buildings and infrastructure.
- November 1920: Kevin Barry, a 19-year-old IRA volunteer, is executed by British forces for his role in the killing of a British soldier.
- July 1921: A truce is called between the IRA and the British government, marking the end of the Irish War of Independence.
- December 6, 1921: The Anglo-Irish Treaty is signed, establishing the Irish Free State and providing for the partition of Ireland.
- January 16, 1922: The Irish Free State comes into existence.
Key Figures of the Irish War of Independence
- Michael Collins: A key figure in the Irish independence movement, Collins was a leader of the IRA and played a key role in the Irish War of Independence.
- Seán MacDermott: A founder of the Irish Republican Brotherhood, MacDermott was a key figure in the Easter Rising and played a key role in the Irish War of Independence.
- Kevin Barry: A 19-year-old IRA volunteer, Barry was executed by British forces for his role in the killing of a British soldier.
- Arthur Griffith: A leader of the Irish independence movement, Griffith was a key figure in the negotiations leading to the Anglo-Irish Treaty.
Conclusion
The Irish War of Independence was a significant event in Irish history, marking the end of British rule in Ireland and the establishment of the Irish Free State. The war was a key event in the struggle for Irish independence, and its legacy continues to shape Irish politics and society to this day.
