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What was the impact on Northern Ireland of the world economic crisis of the inter-war period and/or World War II? (100) - Leaving Cert History - Question 3 - 2019
Question 3
What was the impact on Northern Ireland of the world economic crisis of the inter-war period and/or World War II? (100)
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What was the impact on Northern Ireland of the world economic crisis of the inter-war period and/or World War II? (100) - Leaving Cert History - Question 3 - 2019
Step 1
Impact on Northern Ireland of the World Economic Crisis
Answer
The world economic crisis of the inter-war period had profound effects on Northern Ireland, primarily due to its heavy reliance on traditional industries such as shipbuilding, textiles, and agriculture. The collapse of international trade and the decline in demand for these goods led to significant job losses, economic depression, and rising unemployment rates.
Community tensions intensified, particularly among the working class, resulting in social unrest and strikes. The government struggled to provide adequate relief, leading to disillusionment with the political elite and increased calls for reform.
Step 2
Impact of World War II
Answer
World War II further complicated the economic landscape of Northern Ireland. Although the war effort created jobs in munitions and other industries, it also strained resources. The Belfast Blitz, where German bombers targeted industrial sites, caused substantial damage and civilian casualties, exacerbating the economic struggles.
Post-war, Northern Ireland faced the challenge of adjusting from wartime production to a peacetime economy. The subsequent introduction of welfare policies and economic planning aimed to stabilize the economy but also highlighted longstanding sectarian divisions, contributing to the socio-political tensions that would unravel in the subsequent decades.