Home Rule (#1) Flashcards
Why was there opposition to Home Rule?
The Conservatives supported the cause of the Ulster Unionists, who were Protestants. Conservatives argued that HR would undermine Britain’s status as an Empire. Unionists feared discrimination in a catholic majority country. Economically, Ulster Protestants did not want to lose their control over the wealthy industry it had in shipbuilding and textiles. Businessmen did not want to be taxed heavily to help the poorer, rural parts of Ireland.
What was the 1912 Home Rule Bill?
The third attempted bill. It would give Ireland its own separate with powers to make laws on simply Irish matters. Britain would control foreign policy, trade, defence, pensions and national insurance.
What did the Ulster Unionists do?
1912: Carson drew up the Ulster covenant, in which thousands of men signed, protesting HR
1913: Began to form the UVF
1914: Carson received 30,000 rifles and 3 million rounds.
He was supported by the BL.
What was the Curragh Mutiny?
In March 1914, General Gough and 57 soldiers said they would resign rather than enforce HR and fight the Unionist resistance.
How did the Nationalists respond?
They formed the Irish Volunteers and smuggled in their own rifles and ammunition, creating fears of civil war.
