Decolonisation in Ireland in the 20th century
I can describe how violent conflict in Ireland led to its partition in 1921, with the Irish Free State becoming an independent republic in 1949.
Decolonisation in Ireland in the 20th century
I can describe how violent conflict in Ireland led to its partition in 1921, with the Irish Free State becoming an independent republic in 1949.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Prior to WW1, the Home Rule movement gathered momentum in Ireland and looked likely to become reality.
- With the onset of war, these plans were delayed and Irish nationalists staged a rebellion against British rule in 1916.
- Britain violently crushed the rebellion and war broke out between the IRA and the British Blacks and Tans.
- In 1921, the Anglo-Irish Treaty partitioned Ireland into Northern Ireland and the Irish Free State.
- In 1949, the Irish Free State became the Republic of Ireland, completely separate from the UK.
Keywords
Unionist - before the partition of Ireland, a unionist was someone who wanted all of Ireland to remain part of the United Kingdom, rather than becoming an independent country
Nationalist - someone who strongly believes in and supports their own country, placing its interests above those of other nations
Home Rule - the policy of Ireland having its own parliament and self-government while still remaining part of the United Kingdom
Republican - someone who wanted to establish an independent Irish republic, free from British rule
Partition - to divide into parts
Common misconception
All Irish nationalists shared the same views and had the same aims.
Some Irish nationalists wanted Home Rule for Ireland whereas other nationalists (known as republicans) wanted complete independence from Britain. After 1921, republicans split between those who supported the Anglo-Irish Treaty and those who did not.
To help you plan your year 9 history lesson on: Decolonisation in Ireland in the 20th century, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 history lesson on: Decolonisation in Ireland in the 20th century, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 3 history lessons from the Decolonisation: how similar was decolonisation throughout the British Empire? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of serious crime
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
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