THE IMPACT OF WORLD WAR II ON IRELAND, NORTH AND SOUTH
What Was Life Like in the South of Ireland (Éire) During World War II?
Ireland in 1939
When World War II broke out in September 1939, the south of Ireland (also called Éire) was part of the British Commonwealth. However, in the years since independence was achieved in 1922, the south of Ireland had won greater freedom from Britain. ● A new Constitution for the country had been agreed in 1937. This made the country a republic in all but name – the south of Ireland could decide for itself whether it wanted to fight in World War II or not.
Profile – Éamon de Valera
● Éamon de Valera was Taoiseach of Ireland during World War II.
● He had taken part in the 1916 Rising. ● He opposed the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921–22. ● He founded Fianna Fáil and became head of government in 1932.
● He led the country for the next 16 years, and then was elected President of Ireland.
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Consider why the south of Ireland (Éire) was neutral during World War II
Describe how World War II impacted on the lives of people in the south
In the 1937 Constitution, the name of this state is Éire or Ireland. The state is referred to in this chapter as the south of Ireland, to explain the different experiences of Irish people in the two parts of the island of Ireland.
Who is represented by this symbol?
How powerful are they? What weapon is de
Valera using to defy the lightning?
What is de Valera using to defy the lightning?
How is Ireland represented here?
British cartoon on Taoiseach, Éamon de Valera, and Irish neutrality: what is the message of the cartoon? Is it in favour of Irish neutrality? Explain your answers.