The Irish Civil War broke out in 1922 after the...
History380 views·Updated 9 Sept 2026·2 pagesHigher History Essay on Ireland and Britain: Irish Civil War Causes
K
Katie @katiekeenan8
1
of 2
Background and the Anglo-Irish Treaty
The Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed on 6th December 1921, officially ending the war between Ireland and Britain. However, this treaty became the spark that ignited a devastating civil war amongst the Irish themselves.
The treaty was a mixed bag of wins and losses for Ireland. On the positive side, it offered an alternative to continuing an unwinnable war against Britain and was seen as the best compromise available at the time. However, the downsides were significant - Ireland had to maintain dominion status within the British Commonwealth, meaning they were still tied to Britain rather than being truly independent.
Perhaps most controversially, Irish representatives had to swear an oath of allegiance to the British Crown. For people who had just fought a war for independence, pledging loyalty to the very monarchy they'd been fighting against felt like betrayal. This requirement alone was enough to split the Republican movement down the middle.
Key Point: The treaty created a fundamental divide between those who saw it as a stepping stone to full independence and those who viewed it as a betrayal of everything they'd fought for.
The Republican Party fractured completely over this issue. Michael Collins signed the treaty because he believed it could lead to full independence later, but Éamon de Valera rejected it, arguing it wasn't what so many had died for during the struggle.
2
of 2
Key Figures in the Civil War
Michael Collins found himself in an impossible position after signing the treaty. He'd been pressured to sign under the threat of renewed war with Britain, viewing it as necessary to uphold democracy and benefit all Irish people. However, his decision to shell the Four Courts in Dublin (where anti-treaty forces had taken position) marked the beginning of violent civil conflict.
Collins genuinely didn't want the war to continue and felt the treaty was the only realistic option available. Yet many former comrades now saw him as a traitor to those who had died fighting for complete independence. The man who had been a hero of the independence struggle was now ordering attacks on fellow Irishmen.
Éamon de Valera played a complex and somewhat contradictory role in the conflict. He felt he should have been consulted before the treaty was signed and publicly stated he wanted peace, not war. However, his actions told a different story - he allowed military leaders like Liam Lynch to use guerrilla tactics against pro-treaty forces.
Key Point: The British government's refusal to grant complete independence created the conditions for civil war, but then left the Irish to fight it out amongst themselves.
The British government cleverly avoided direct involvement in the civil war. Rather than dealing with anti-treaty forces themselves, they forced Collins and the provisional Irish government to handle the situation. This meant Irish people were fighting Irish people over a treaty that Britain had imposed, while Britain stayed safely on the sidelines.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content in History
9HistoryEvolution of Medicine in Britain
Explore the comprehensive journey of medicine in Britain from medieval times to the modern era. This study note covers key topics such as the Black Death, germ theory, the impact of the Renaissance, the evolution of public health, and the development of antibiotics. Ideal for GCSE History students studying the AQA curriculum, this resource provides essential insights into significant medical advancements and public health reforms.
1117,006976
HistoryCold War Dynamics
Explore the key events and ideologies of the Cold War, including the arms race, nuclear tensions, and the policies of expansionism and containment. This summary highlights the pivotal moments from the Cuban Missile Crisis to the shifting relations between superpowers, providing insights into the global impact of Cold War conflicts. Ideal for history revision and exam preparation.
113266
HistoryEvolution of Medicine
Explore the comprehensive timeline of medical advancements from medieval practices to modern healthcare. This revision resource covers key topics such as the Great Plague, Germ Theory, the development of antibiotics, and the evolution of public health reforms. Ideal for Edexcel GCSE History students seeking a thorough understanding of the progression of medical knowledge and practices.
1116,326720
Historyelizabeth revision guide
GCSE edexcel history revision guide elizabeth
113,092296
HistoryHistory Cold war
History Edexcel cold war notes
1169712
HistoryCold War Mindmaps Overview
Explore comprehensive mindmaps covering key events and concepts of the Cold War, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, Gorbachev's reforms, and the end of the Cold War. Ideal for Edexcel GCSE History students seeking to enhance their understanding of superpower relations and significant historical events in Europe. This resource provides a visual summary to aid in revision and retention.
119,850197
HistoryWeimar Republic Overview
Explore the key events and challenges of the Weimar Republic (1918-1929), including the November Revolution, Treaty of Versailles, economic crises, and the rise of political extremism. This summary covers the establishment of the Weimar Constitution, the impact of hyperinflation, and the cultural developments during the Golden Twenties. Ideal for students studying Weimar Germany and its historical significance.
112,02641
HistoryRussian Revolution Overview
Explore comprehensive mind maps detailing the key events and figures from the Russian Revolutions of 1905 and 1917 to Stalin's rule and the Cold War. This resource covers the rise of the Bolsheviks, the impact of the Civil War, and the establishment of the Soviet Union, providing a clear visual summary for students studying AQA history.
114508
Most popular content
9
SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1274,1692,307
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,3143,045
BiologyA-Level Biology Year 1 Overview
Comprehensive summary of AQA A-Level Biology Year 1, covering key topics such as cellular structure, protein synthesis, immune response, gas exchange, and more. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological concepts. Includes detailed insights into cellular processes, biological classification, and the circulatory system.
1215,253704
BiologyAQA Biology: Key Concepts
Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.
109,258316
MathsComprehensive Maths Concepts
Explore essential mathematical concepts including powers, geometry, statistics, and probability. This resource features 65 pages of detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to enhance your understanding of topics such as right triangles, volume calculations, and data representation. Ideal for students seeking to strengthen their numeracy skills and grasp complex mathematical principles.
1180,3956,327
SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,9101,409
CriminologyCriminal Justice Overview
Explore key concepts in criminal justice, including the trial process, roles of court personnel, types of offenses, and evidence handling. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics such as jury strengths and weaknesses, the role of the CPS, and the impact of media on trials. Ideal for students preparing for assessments in criminology. Achieved a B grade.
133,48472
BiologyBiology Paper 1 Overview
Comprehensive study notes covering key concepts in cellular biology, human digestion, respiration, photosynthesis, and the circulatory system. This resource includes detailed explanations of cell structures, enzyme functions, nutrient absorption, and the impact of environmental factors on biological processes. Ideal for students preparing for Biology Paper 1 exams.
1115,479391
English LiteratureAn Inspector Calls: Character Insights
Explore in-depth analysis and key quotes for characters in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This resource covers Gerald Croft, Inspector Goole, Sheila Birling, Mrs. Birling, Eric Birling, and Eva Smith, focusing on themes of class, gender roles, and social responsibility. Ideal for students aiming for Grade 8 and above.
1125,785916
Students love us, and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user
History380 views·Updated 9 Sept 2026·2 pagesHigher History Essay on Ireland and Britain: Irish Civil War Causes
K
Katie @katiekeenan8
The Irish Civil War broke out in 1922 after the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which ended the war with Britain but left Ireland deeply divided. This wasn't the full independence many Irish Republicans had fought for, creating a bitter...
1
of 2
Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Background and the Anglo-Irish Treaty
The Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed on 6th December 1921, officially ending the war between Ireland and Britain. However, this treaty became the spark that ignited a devastating civil war amongst the Irish themselves.
The treaty was a mixed bag of wins and losses for Ireland. On the positive side, it offered an alternative to continuing an unwinnable war against Britain and was seen as the best compromise available at the time. However, the downsides were significant - Ireland had to maintain dominion status within the British Commonwealth, meaning they were still tied to Britain rather than being truly independent.
Perhaps most controversially, Irish representatives had to swear an oath of allegiance to the British Crown. For people who had just fought a war for independence, pledging loyalty to the very monarchy they'd been fighting against felt like betrayal. This requirement alone was enough to split the Republican movement down the middle.
Key Point: The treaty created a fundamental divide between those who saw it as a stepping stone to full independence and those who viewed it as a betrayal of everything they'd fought for.
The Republican Party fractured completely over this issue. Michael Collins signed the treaty because he believed it could lead to full independence later, but Éamon de Valera rejected it, arguing it wasn't what so many had died for during the struggle.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Key Figures in the Civil War
Michael Collins found himself in an impossible position after signing the treaty. He'd been pressured to sign under the threat of renewed war with Britain, viewing it as necessary to uphold democracy and benefit all Irish people. However, his decision to shell the Four Courts in Dublin (where anti-treaty forces had taken position) marked the beginning of violent civil conflict.
Collins genuinely didn't want the war to continue and felt the treaty was the only realistic option available. Yet many former comrades now saw him as a traitor to those who had died fighting for complete independence. The man who had been a hero of the independence struggle was now ordering attacks on fellow Irishmen.
Éamon de Valera played a complex and somewhat contradictory role in the conflict. He felt he should have been consulted before the treaty was signed and publicly stated he wanted peace, not war. However, his actions told a different story - he allowed military leaders like Liam Lynch to use guerrilla tactics against pro-treaty forces.
Key Point: The British government's refusal to grant complete independence created the conditions for civil war, but then left the Irish to fight it out amongst themselves.
The British government cleverly avoided direct involvement in the civil war. Rather than dealing with anti-treaty forces themselves, they forced Collins and the provisional Irish government to handle the situation. This meant Irish people were fighting Irish people over a treaty that Britain had imposed, while Britain stayed safely on the sidelines.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content in History
9HistoryEvolution of Medicine in Britain
Explore the comprehensive journey of medicine in Britain from medieval times to the modern era. This study note covers key topics such as the Black Death, germ theory, the impact of the Renaissance, the evolution of public health, and the development of antibiotics. Ideal for GCSE History students studying the AQA curriculum, this resource provides essential insights into significant medical advancements and public health reforms.
1117,006976
HistoryCold War Dynamics
Explore the key events and ideologies of the Cold War, including the arms race, nuclear tensions, and the policies of expansionism and containment. This summary highlights the pivotal moments from the Cuban Missile Crisis to the shifting relations between superpowers, providing insights into the global impact of Cold War conflicts. Ideal for history revision and exam preparation.
113266
HistoryEvolution of Medicine
Explore the comprehensive timeline of medical advancements from medieval practices to modern healthcare. This revision resource covers key topics such as the Great Plague, Germ Theory, the development of antibiotics, and the evolution of public health reforms. Ideal for Edexcel GCSE History students seeking a thorough understanding of the progression of medical knowledge and practices.
1116,326720
Historyelizabeth revision guide
GCSE edexcel history revision guide elizabeth
113,092296
HistoryHistory Cold war
History Edexcel cold war notes
1169712
HistoryCold War Mindmaps Overview
Explore comprehensive mindmaps covering key events and concepts of the Cold War, including the Cuban Missile Crisis, Gorbachev's reforms, and the end of the Cold War. Ideal for Edexcel GCSE History students seeking to enhance their understanding of superpower relations and significant historical events in Europe. This resource provides a visual summary to aid in revision and retention.
119,850197
HistoryWeimar Republic Overview
Explore the key events and challenges of the Weimar Republic (1918-1929), including the November Revolution, Treaty of Versailles, economic crises, and the rise of political extremism. This summary covers the establishment of the Weimar Constitution, the impact of hyperinflation, and the cultural developments during the Golden Twenties. Ideal for students studying Weimar Germany and its historical significance.
112,02641
HistoryRussian Revolution Overview
Explore comprehensive mind maps detailing the key events and figures from the Russian Revolutions of 1905 and 1917 to Stalin's rule and the Cold War. This resource covers the rise of the Bolsheviks, the impact of the Civil War, and the establishment of the Soviet Union, providing a clear visual summary for students studying AQA history.
114508
Most popular content
9SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1274,1692,307
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12103,3143,045
BiologyA-Level Biology Year 1 Overview
Comprehensive summary of AQA A-Level Biology Year 1, covering key topics such as cellular structure, protein synthesis, immune response, gas exchange, and more. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological concepts. Includes detailed insights into cellular processes, biological classification, and the circulatory system.
1215,253704
BiologyAQA Biology: Key Concepts
Explore essential AQA Biology topics including Photosynthesis, Respiration, Homeostasis, Genetics, and Ecology. This comprehensive knowledge organizer covers key concepts such as energy transfer, hormonal control, and genetic variation, providing a solid foundation for your studies. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding biological processes.
109,258316
MathsComprehensive Maths Concepts
Explore essential mathematical concepts including powers, geometry, statistics, and probability. This resource features 65 pages of detailed explanations, diagrams, and examples to enhance your understanding of topics such as right triangles, volume calculations, and data representation. Ideal for students seeking to strengthen their numeracy skills and grasp complex mathematical principles.
1180,3956,327
SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,9101,409
CriminologyCriminal Justice Overview
Explore key concepts in criminal justice, including the trial process, roles of court personnel, types of offenses, and evidence handling. This comprehensive summary covers essential topics such as jury strengths and weaknesses, the role of the CPS, and the impact of media on trials. Ideal for students preparing for assessments in criminology. Achieved a B grade.
133,48472
BiologyBiology Paper 1 Overview
Comprehensive study notes covering key concepts in cellular biology, human digestion, respiration, photosynthesis, and the circulatory system. This resource includes detailed explanations of cell structures, enzyme functions, nutrient absorption, and the impact of environmental factors on biological processes. Ideal for students preparing for Biology Paper 1 exams.
1115,479391
English LiteratureAn Inspector Calls: Character Insights
Explore in-depth analysis and key quotes for characters in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls'. This resource covers Gerald Croft, Inspector Goole, Sheila Birling, Mrs. Birling, Eric Birling, and Eva Smith, focusing on themes of class, gender roles, and social responsibility. Ideal for students aiming for Grade 8 and above.
1125,785916
Students love us, and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user