An assessment of the impact of World War I on Ireland

Political and Social Impact

World War I led to the suspension of the Home Rule Bill in 1914, which had been passed but not yet implemented. This aggravated the nationalists who wanted more autonomy for Ireland.
The Easter Rising in 1916, partly facilitated by British preoccupation with the war, drastically changed public opinion, transforming the perpetrators from a fringe group of radicals into national heroes.
The conscription crisis of 1918 attracted substantial attention. The British plan to draft Irishmen into the army met with widespread rebellion in Ireland and fuelled the surge of nationalism.

Economic Impact

The war largely deteriorated Ireland’s economy, with increased inflation and unemployment rates. The cost of living became excessively high due to the war effort, affecting the majority of Irish citizens.
However, some sectors like shipbuilding and munitions experienced a boom, particularly in Belfast where unionists were the majority. This further heightened the divide between north and south.

Post-War Impact

After the war, the rise of Sinn Féin, the nationalist party, was a significant development. They won a majority in the 1918 election and used this mandate to declare an Irish Republic, leading to the War of Independence.
The War of Independence (1919-1921) was a direct outcome of increased nationalist sentiments after the war and the failure of the British to implement Home Rule. This conflict marked another turning point, further escalating the tensions in Ireland.

Effect on Anglo-Irish Relationships

World War I also had a significant impact on relations between Ireland and Britain. The post-war disdain towards Britain’s handling of Irish issues led to a further rupture in the already troubled relations between the two regions.
The experience of Irish soldiers in the war, many of whom felt that their sacrifices went unrecognised, compounded anti-British sentiments, adding fuel to the fire of Irish nationalism.

Contribution to the Northern Ireland Question

The war also contributed indirectly to the partition of Ireland. Many Protestants from the north fought in the war and used their sacrifice to justify their claim to stay part of the UK, ultimately leading to the partition and creation of Northern Ireland in 1921.