Sinn Féin

Definition

Sinn Féin is an Irish republican political party founded in 1905, advocating for the reunification of Ireland and the establishment of an independent republic. The party played a significant role during the tumultuous period of the War on the Homefront, particularly in relation to the Irish struggle for self-determination amidst World War I and the subsequent Irish War of Independence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sinn Féin's early platform was focused on promoting Irish nationalism and independence, but its goals intensified during World War I when the party opposed conscription in Ireland.
2. The party gained significant electoral success in the 1918 general election, winning a majority of Irish seats in Westminster, which allowed them to push for an independent Irish government.
3. Sinn Féin declared the establishment of a Dáil Éireann (Irish Assembly) in 1919, claiming to be the legitimate government of Ireland and rejecting British authority.
4. The party's political strategies included mobilizing public support through grassroots campaigns, which helped solidify their position as a leading force for Irish nationalism.
5. Following the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921, Sinn Féin faced internal divisions regarding acceptance of partition and compromise with Britain, which impacted its long-term strategies and cohesion.

Review Questions

• How did Sinn Féin's policies evolve during World War I, particularly regarding conscription and Irish nationalism?
  • During World War I, Sinn Féin's policies shifted towards strong opposition to conscription in Ireland, which they viewed as an imposition by Britain that undermined Irish sovereignty. This stance resonated with many Irish citizens who were already skeptical of British rule. The party capitalized on this sentiment to promote a vision of complete independence for Ireland, ultimately positioning itself as a key player in the nationalist movement during this critical time.
• Discuss the significance of the 1918 general election for Sinn Féin and its impact on Irish politics.
  • The 1918 general election was a turning point for Sinn Féin as they won an overwhelming majority of Irish seats in Westminster. This success allowed them to claim legitimacy as representatives of Irish interests and propelled their agenda for independence. The election results not only showcased widespread support for their nationalist goals but also effectively sidelined other political parties that were less committed to full independence from Britain.
• Evaluate the internal conflicts within Sinn Féin following the Anglo-Irish Treaty and their long-term implications for Irish nationalism.
  • After the Anglo-Irish Treaty was signed in 1921, Sinn Féin experienced significant internal conflicts over whether to accept the treaty’s terms, which included partitioning Ireland. The division led to a split within the party, with some members favoring compromise while others insisted on full republicanism without concessions. This conflict weakened the unity of the nationalist movement and set the stage for future political struggles in Ireland, highlighting tensions between differing visions for achieving independence.

Related terms

Irish Republican Army (IRA): A paramilitary organization that sought to end British rule in Ireland and unify Ireland as a republic, often associated with Sinn Féin.

Partition of Ireland: The division of Ireland into two separate entities: Northern Ireland, which remained part of the United Kingdom, and the Irish Free State, which became an independent nation in 1922.

Easter Rising: A rebellion that took place in Dublin in 1916, aimed at ending British rule in Ireland, which significantly influenced Sinn Féin's rise in popularity and political power.