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Explain two of the following terms relating to twentieth-century Ireland: B-Specials; Gerrymandering; Internment - Junior Cycle History - Question (C) - 2019
Question (C)
Explain two of the following terms relating to twentieth-century Ireland: B-Specials; Gerrymandering; Internment. Mention three achievements of the Cumann na nGaed... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain two of the following terms relating to twentieth-century Ireland: B-Specials; Gerrymandering; Internment - Junior Cycle History - Question (C) - 2019
Step 1
Explain two of the following terms relating to twentieth-century Ireland: B-Specials; Gerrymandering.
Answer
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B-Specials: This term refers to a part-time police force established in Northern Ireland. The B-Specials were primarily composed of loyalists and served as an anti-Nationalist police unit, often associated with violent enforcement against those perceived as threats to the unionist state.
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Gerrymandering: This term describes the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one political party over another. In the context of twentieth-century Ireland, it was used to consolidate power for the ruling party by rigging constituency boundaries, effectively diluting opposition votes.
Step 2
Mention three achievements of the Cumann na nGaedhael government, 1923-1932.
Answer
The Cumann na nGaedhael government achieved a number of significant milestones:
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Establishment of An Garda Síochána: This was the creation of an independent national police force, which helped to provide a sense of security and law enforcement in the new state.
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Development of the Agricultural Credit Corporation: This agency was established to support farmers with loans and financial guarantees, contributing to the agricultural development of Ireland during this period.
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Post-war Economic Stability: The government worked towards stabilizing the Irish economy after the devastation of the Civil War, which included the management of public finances and investment in infrastructure.
Step 3
Write an account of two of the following: Relations between the Irish government and the U.K., 1932-1939.
Answer
During the period of 1932-1939, relations between the Irish government and the United Kingdom underwent significant changes. Under the leadership of Éamon de Valera, the Irish government took a more assertive stance regarding its sovereignty.
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Economic War: The introduction of tariffs and the ending of the export trade agreement saw the start of what was termed the 'Economic War'. Ireland's decision to withhold payment of land annuities, which had been a source of conflict, led to a series of retaliatory tariffs by the UK on Irish goods, resulting in strained economic relations.
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Anglo-Irish Agreements: De Valera's government negotiated agreements that ultimately led to changes in the status of the Treaty of 1921, moving towards greater independence. This set the stage for the eventual repeal of the external relations act, allowing Ireland to formally declare itself a republic.
Step 4
Write an account of two of the following: Séan Lemass as Taoiseach, 1959-66.
Answer
Séan Lemass served as Taoiseach from 1959 to 1966 and is often credited with modernizing Ireland's economy and increasing its global engagement. His tenure is characterized by several pivotal actions:
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Economic Policy Reforms: Lemass was a key proponent of economic planning and open trade policies. His government focused on attracting foreign investment and fostering industrial growth, which significantly shifted Ireland's economic landscape from agriculture to more diversified industries.
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Social Reforms: His administration also initiated various social reforms that improved education and healthcare, addressing social issues and laying the groundwork for a more progressive society. These reforms contributed to the overall betterment of the Irish standard of living during the 1960s.