The Emergency was the name given to the effect of World War II on Ireland between 1939 and 1945. During World War II, the South of Ireland, known as Éire, remained neutral and took no official side in the war. However, Northern Ireland fought on the side of Britain. World War II had a large impact on people’s lives. It also deepened the divide between north and south.
The Emergency Type of source
Primary Primary
Visual Written
WORKING WITH THE EVIDENCE! —————————————
Category
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Clery’s advertisement for clothing and furnishings during the Emergency De Valera’s speech on neutrality, from Dáil records
‘Over 20 years ago another peril brought the country to one magnifi cent unity. The leaders of all Parties, the Church and the people combined for a great and noble purpose – to save our young men from being forced into a war against the nation’s will. Can I not ask for the same unity to-day to resist being brought into a war in which our State has declared its desire and its intention not to be involved? There is but one line of safety for us, to be ready to resist to the utmost whosoever may attack us.’
Clery’s advertisement in the Irish Times on 3 December 1942
Extract from de Valera’s speech on neutrality What information do these sources provide about the Emergency? 278
