Irish Political History and Current Parties.pptx

A brief overview of the formation of various Irish political parties as well as a look at some of the parties that exist now. Basic slides, suitable for all ages

1. Irish Political History

2. Brief History of Sinn Féin Foundation (1905) Sinn Féin was founded in 1905 by Arthur Griffith as a nationalist party advocating for Irish self-governance. Initially, it promoted a policy of dual monarchy with Britain but later shifted towards full independence. 1916 Rising & War of Independence (1916-1921) Though not directly involved in the 1916 Easter Rising, Sinn Féin gained prominence when many leaders of the rebellion were mistakenly associated with the party. In the 1918 General Election, Sinn Féin won a landslide victory, leading to the establishment of the First Dáil (Irish Parliament) in 1919 and support for the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921).

3. Civil War & Split (1922-1923) After the Anglo-Irish Treaty (1921), Sinn Féin split: Pro-Treaty side formed Cumann na nGaedheal (later Fine Gael ). Anti-Treaty side continued as Sinn Féin, opposing the Treaty and abstaining from participation in the new Irish Free State government. Decline & Revival (1923-1969) Sinn Féin remained a marginal party for much of the early 20th century. It was overshadowed by Fianna Fáil , which emerged from the anti-Treaty movement in 1926. By the late 1960s, tensions between constitutional politics and militant republicanism caused further divisions.

4. Provisional Sinn Féin & The Troubles (1969-1998) In 1969 , Sinn Féin split again into Official Sinn Féin (later the Workers’ Party) and Provisional Sinn Féin, which became aligned with the Provisional IRA. Through the Troubles (1969-1998), Sinn Féin was seen as the political wing of the IRA, advocating for a united Ireland. Gerry Adams became leader in 1983, shifting the party towards electoral politics while maintaining links with the IRA.

5. Peace Process & Good Friday Agreement (1990s-Present) Sinn Féin played a key role in the Good Friday Agreement (1998), leading to a ceasefire and a transition to peaceful politics. It grew as a mainstream political force in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, emphasizing social justice, Irish unity, and economic reform. In 2020, Mary Lou McDonald led Sinn Féin to its best election result in the Republic, positioning it as a leading opposition party. In 2022, Sinn Féin became the largest party in Northern Ireland, marking a historic shift in the region’s politics.

6. The Labour Party (Founded 1912) Established by James Connolly, James Larkin, and William O’Brien to represent workers' rights. Played a key role in early Irish politics but struggled for dominance against Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Participated in multiple coalition governments but has declined in influence in recent years.

7. The Green Party (Founded 1981) Formed to promote environmental policies and sustainability. First entered the Dáil in 1989 and has participated in coalition governments. Lost all seats in 2011 after an unpopular coalition with Fianna Fáil but regained strength in 2020.

8. The Social Democrats (Founded 2015) Formed by former Labour TDs as a progressive, center-left alternative. Advocates for social justice, healthcare reform, and transparency in politics. Gradually growing, with increased representation in the Dáil.

9. People Before Profit (Founded 2005) A socialist party advocating for workers' rights, public housing, and anti-austerity policies. Strong presence in Dublin and urban areas, often aligned with Sinn Féin on social issues.

10. Aontú (Founded 2019) A socially conservative, nationalist party founded by Peadar Tóibín, a former Sinn Féin TD. Advocates for Irish unity and pro-life policies. Holds a small but vocal presence in Irish politics.