Sample Answer for 40 Mark DBQ Context & Study - Why was the lockout a short-term victory for employers?

One of the DBQ topics for 5th years (sitting LC in 2026) will be the Dublin Strike and Lockout. This is one of a 4-part context driven series that will aim to help you to prepare for all eventualities in case it happens to come up. The four questions are:

1. Why did the Strike and Lock-out begin?
2. Why was Murphy not prepared to compromise with the strikers?
3. How was the strike viewed by the Catholic Church?
4. Why was the lockout a short-term victory for employers?

This section will deal with question four.

Disclaimer: This is not a full sample, however, it will provide you with a roadmap and some key context that you can use to help inform your 40-mark essays. Feel free to use the notes in conjunction with the other DBQ prep pieces in the section.

Paragraph 1: Defeat of the Strike and Union Weakness

The lock-out ended in early 1914, with the workers returning to work largely on employers' terms, marking a short-term victory for the employers. Many workers were forced to abandon the strike as they faced extreme poverty and hunger. The ITGWU was severely weakened, with its membership significantly reduced. James Larkin left for the United States, leaving the union leaderless and fractured. This immediate victory ensured that employers retained control over the terms of employment and avoided recognising the union.

(Quote to include) "We cannot starve forever, so we must return." — A Dublin worker

Paragraph 2: Employers Retained Power Over Labour

Employers like William Murphy avoided concessions to the unions, preserving their control over their businesses. The "no union" pledge forced on workers was largely upheld, preventing the ITGWU from gaining official recognition. By refusing to negotiate, employers clearly communicated that they would not tolerate union demands, solidifying their authority over workers. This ensured that employers could dictate wages and working conditions without interference from organised labour.

(Key Quote to add) "The employers' victory was one of principle: no recognition of Larkin's union." — A Contemporary analyst from the time of the lockout.

Paragraph 3: Temporary Economic Stability for Employers

In the short term, the strike's end meant businesses could return to normal operations. Economic stability was restored, and employers could continue their practices without the threat of strikes. However, the victory was not total. Many workers remained deeply dissatisfied, and labour unrest continued to simmer beneath the surface, eventually leading to renewed efforts at organisation in the coming years.

(Quote to add into the essay) "Peace has been restored, but at what cost?" — A newspaper editorial

Paragraph 4: Long-Term Costs of the Lock-out

While employers achieved a short-term victory, the lock-out had significant long-term consequences. The brutality of the lock-out and the suffering of workers increased sympathy for the labour movement in Ireland. Although weakened, the ITGWU eventually recovered, and the lock-out became a symbol of workers' resistance. In the long run, the intransigence of employers like Murphy only fuelled greater calls for social reform and union rights.

(Quote to add at the end) "Though defeated, the workers' cause will rise again." — James Connolly |