Causes for the Civil War: Treaty Split SF

Question 1

The Divison between idealists/fanatics and pragmatists /moderates were seen in the Cabinet, Dail and party

Answer 1

• Collins and De Valera on either sides of war, both leading SF figures
• Resurfaced divisions that were glossed over at 1917 Ard Fheis, re-highlighting the divide between constitutionals (Collins), and radicals (Brugha)
• Unity from Ard Fheis was superficial and papered over SF divisions

Question 2

What does Lee say about the two sides

Answer 2

“Majority right VS Divine Right”

Question 3

What does Collins view the Treaty as?

Answer 3

“Freedom to achieve freedom”

Question 4

What does De Valera argue?

Answer 4

“Still possible to renegotiate the treaty” (Document 2)

Question 5

How does Boland view the split?

Answer 5

“Pragmatism Vs Principle”