Pwn Mock Stuff Flashcards
(51 cards)
What did de Valera announce the day after Britain declared war on Germany?
Eire’s neutrality
This declaration was a significant political stance during World War II.
What was the primary duty the Eire government felt during the war?
To unite the people against outside forces and protect them from the hardship of war.
How did de Valera view neutrality in terms of foreign policy?
As a way of operating an independent foreign policy and establishing a separate identity for Eire.
What rationale did de Valera provide for Eire’s neutrality?
Other countries had declared themselves neutral, particularly the USA.
What was significant about Eire’s status in the Commonwealth during WWII?
Eire was the only dominion that did not go to war in 1939.
What belief did the Eire government hold regarding Britain’s protection?
That as a member of the Commonwealth, Britain would protect Eire’s coastline.
What was the state of Eire’s military capability at the time?
Eire had a very small army and airforce, and no navy, with only 20,000 men in armed forces.
Why was the Eire government unable to modernize its military?
They could not afford to rearm due to financial constraints.
What was the public sentiment in Eire regarding neutrality?
There was huge public support for neutrality.
Did some people in Eire have sympathy for Germany?
Yes, some people in Eire had some sympathy with Germany.
What was the belief regarding the threat posed by Germany to Eire?
That Germany posed no threat, as an invasion by sea would be difficult.
What was the general attitude in Eire towards neutrality during the time discussed?
Neutrality was generally a popular policy in Eire, despite being a controversial issue.
What was a key reason many in Eire supported neutrality?
It was believed that neutrality helped reinforce Eire’s independence.
What was one of the consequences of de Valera declaring war for Eire?
It would have deeply divided Eire and exposed it to a German invasion.
How did many people in Eire feel about the potential horrors of modern warfare?
Many were relieved that neutrality would hopefully save Eire from those horrors.
How did Britain initially respond to Eire’s declaration of neutrality?
Britain accepted Eire’s declaration only grudgingly.
What was a significant concern for Britain regarding Eire’s neutrality?
There were fears that Germany might use Eire as a base to invade.
What was the effect of Eire’s neutrality on British-Irish relations?
Eire’s neutrality had a significantly negative impact on the relationship between the two countries.
Who did Churchill appoint to maintain communication with Eire?
Sir John Maffey was appointed as the British representative in Eire.
Did Britain recognize Eire’s neutrality?
No, Britain never recognized Eire’s neutrality.
What was the state of relations between Britain and Eire in the post-war period?
Relations were very poor, which seriously affected Eire’s economy.
How did the Northern Ireland government react to Eire’s neutrality?
The reaction was negative, viewing Eire’s declaration as a threat to UK security.
What was the public response in Stormont to Eire’s declaration of neutrality?
It was condemned publicly, with Craigavon describing it as disloyal.
