Sample Answer for 40 mark Q Work - Why did the Strike and Lock-out begin?

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 one.

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: Economic Context and Poor Working Conditions

The Dublin Lock-out began due to the extreme poverty and poor working conditions faced by workers in Dublin in the early 20th century. Many were employed in unskilled, low-paying jobs, particularly in industries like transport, docks, and textiles - Workers lived in overcrowded tenements, with minimal labour rights and no access to social protections like healthcare or unemployment benefits. This economic backdrop created deep dissatisfaction, leading to growing support for unionisation and better wages.

(Quote to consider ) "We only want the right to live by our labour." — James Larkin

Paragraph 2: Growth of the ITGWU and Larkin's Influence

The rise of the Irish Transport and General Workers' Union (ITGWU), founded by James Larkin in 1909, was pivotal in the lead-up to the lock-out. Larkin advocated for better working conditions, a fair wage, and the right to unionise, leading to tensions with employers.- Larkin's charismatic leadership and calls for a general strike in 1913, where all workers would unite to demand improved conditions, were viewed as direct challenges to employers' authority, particularly in the transport sector.

(Quote to consider) "The great appear great because we are on our knees. Let us rise!" — James Larkin

Paragraph 3: William Martin Murphy and Employer Resistance

The lock-out was triggered by William Martin Murphy, a powerful Dublin employer and owner of the Dublin United Tramway Company. He opposed the growing power of Larkin's union and refused to employ any workers affiliated with the ITGWU. Murphy led a group of over 300 employers who demanded that their workers sign a pledge not to join the ITGWU. When workers refused, Murphy initiated a lock-out, shutting down workplaces and barring union members from returning to their jobs.

(Quote to consider) "I will not have Larkin dictating to me." — William Martin Murphy

Paragraph 4: Immediate Triggers and Outbreak of the Strike

The conflict escalated when, on 26 August 1913, tram drivers walked out in protest against Murphy's refusal to recognise their union. This initial strike coincided with the Dublin Horse Show, a high-profile event. Murphy's decision to respond with a lock-out—denying work to over 20,000 employees—set the stage for a prolonged industrial dispute. The strike quickly expanded as workers from other sectors joined, igniting months of conflict between labour and employers.

(Quote to consider) "We have to fight for the principle of unionism or go under as slaves." — James Connolly |