Williamite War: War in Ireland

Question 1

Williamite War, War in Ireland:

Date

Answer 1

1689-91

Question 2

Williamite War, War in Ireland:

Summary

Answer 2

Started when James held a parliament in Ireland in 1689, where the majority of the Catholic gentry of Ireland offered support to his cause.

Over 80,000 soldiers fought on both sides. William achieved a relatively swift victory.

Over 8,000 people died when William’s forces defended the Siege of Derry in 1689.

1/2 of James’ soldiers were killed or captured at the Battle of Aughrim in July 1691.

Question 3

Williamite War, War in Ireland:

Significance

Answer 3

Historians have used the war as evidence that the GR was not the peaceful and sensible transition suggested by the Whigs.

Question 4

Williamite War, War in Ireland:

Revisionist view

Answer 4

The events after 1688 characterised by violence (such as that associated with the Williamite War in Ireland) and radicalism rather than peace. (opposed Whig view)

Revolutionaries numbered in thousands- Steve Pincus:

• Including the thousands of soldiers who fought for William and were not simply a tiny political elite.

Question 5

Williamite War, War in Ireland:

Whig view

Answer 5

Bloodless revolution- Macaulay:

• Macaulay contrasted it with the French Rev. = GR least violent revolution known to history.