History The Irish War Of Independence Questions Medium
The Anglo-Irish Treaty, signed on December 6, 1921, marked a significant turning point in the Irish War of Independence. The key provisions of the treaty were as follows:
1. Establishment of the Irish Free State: The treaty recognized the establishment of the Irish Free State as a self-governing dominion within the British Empire, with the same status as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
2. Partition of Ireland: The treaty allowed for the partition of Ireland, creating Northern Ireland as a separate entity within the United Kingdom. This division was based on the predominantly Protestant and unionist population in the north, who wished to remain part of the UK.
3. Oath of Allegiance: The treaty required members of the Irish parliament to take an oath of allegiance to the British Crown, which caused significant controversy and division among Irish nationalists. This provision was seen as a compromise to ensure the continued connection between Ireland and the British Empire.
4. British military bases: The treaty allowed for the retention of British naval bases in Ireland, including the strategically important naval base at Berehaven in County Cork. This provision was seen as a compromise to address British security concerns.
5. Boundary Commission: The treaty established a Boundary Commission to review the border between Northern Ireland and the rest of Ireland. However, the commission's work was ultimately inconclusive, and the border remained largely unchanged.
6. Financial settlement: The treaty outlined financial arrangements between Ireland and Britain, including the transfer of certain assets and liabilities. It also provided for the establishment of a joint exchequer board to oversee financial matters.
7. Commonwealth membership: The treaty allowed the Irish Free State to become a member of the British Commonwealth, a voluntary association of independent nations with historical ties to Britain. This membership provided Ireland with certain benefits and privileges within the Commonwealth.
These key provisions of the Anglo-Irish Treaty were highly controversial and led to a split within the Irish nationalist movement. While some saw the treaty as a step towards independence, others viewed it as a betrayal of the republican ideals and aspirations for a united Ireland. The treaty ultimately paved the way for the establishment of the Irish Free State, but it also laid the groundwork for future conflicts and tensions between Ireland and Britain.