What was the political situation in Ireland by 1918?

Answer

The Liberal party had been in power leading up to the War and they were trying to pass Home Rule. They were backed by the Irish Nationalist party, a party that they relied on to maintain their advantage over the conservatives.

When the war started the opposing factions (Nationalists and Unionists)dropped the issue in order to fight the common enemy, Germany (though some militant nationalists saw an Imperial germany as an ally against Britain).

After the war the Liberal party failed to get back into power, but by then the quest for Home Rule had gone so far that it was passed anyway by 1927.

The Parties within Ireland specifically were mainly the Irish Nationalists (eire) and the Ulster Unionists (Ulster). Both had militant groups within them with the INP being linked with the Irish Volunteers and the UU being linked with the Ulster Volunteer Force. Sinn Fein was also present at this time and although pushing for similar outcomes as the INP, they were more sperate and rogue.

There had been rebellions previous to 1918, but they were unsuccessful largely down to the superior numbers, training and equipment of the Britsh army. Also the church would not support the armed uprisings claiming that "They were a pointless act of bloodshed doomed to failure". This put off many would be activists who would not move without the churches backing.

Hope this helps.

Answer

Almost immediately after WW1 civil war broke out in Ireland (1919-21) between Irish Nationalists (mainly Roman Cahtolic) and those who wanted to remain part of the United Kingdom (Protestants). The war was fought with exceptional viciousness. The British government used a band of ruthless irregulars, nicknamed the "Black 'n Tans". For most practical purposes the Republic of Ireland gained independence in 1921.

First answer by Tom O'Brien. Last edit by Joncey. Contributor trust: 1743 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 155 [recommend question]