What Did the British Empire Ever Do for Ireland?

The British Empire's relationship with Ireland is one of the most contentious in modern history. Critics often argue that rather than bringing substantial benefits, the Empire's policies contributed to significant suffering. A prime example of this is the Great Famine of the 1840s, during which millions of people died due to starvation while the British administration is accused of using armed ships to keep out food supplies. This article aims to explore this period in detail and the broader issues surrounding the treatment of Ireland under British rule.

Subsidies and Protection

Contrary to the claims made by some British Tories, who argue that the British Empire provided subsidies and protection to Ireland much like the current support for Scotland, the historical evidence suggests a more complex and often negative relationship. In fact, the actions of the British government during the Great Famine are a testament to the lack of support for Ireland during periods of crises.

The Great Famine of 1845-1852

The Great Famine, also known as the Great Irish Famine or Catastrophe, was a period of mass starvation, disease, and emigration in Ireland. It began in 1845 when a potato blight, a fungus known as Phytophthora infestans, decimated the potato crop, which was the staple food for the Irish peasantry. The impact of the famine caused a tremendous demographic and societal shift in Ireland, with an estimated 1 million deaths and more than 1.5 million people emigrating from the country. This tragic event is often cited as the beginning of the end of the economic and demographic dominance of the island by the British Empire.

The Policy of Non-Intervention

During the famine, the British government's policy was one of non-intervention. This initiative was driven by the laissez-faire economic philosophy of the time and the prevailing belief that natural disasters should be managed by the free market, not by government intervention. Moreover, the British government had a policy of exporting food to pay off national debts. Armies of Home Rule supporters in Liverpool and London called the food blockade 'blood on the soul of the nation.'

Transporting Food In and Out

Interestingly, the British government also sent over Food Transport Support Squad (FTSS) and ships from England to transport food to Ireland. This is often cited as evidence of support, but the real issue is that even though food was being sent from England, it was not being granted to Irish citizens. Instead, the food was being exported back to England to pay off national debts, while at the same time, the government was using armed ships to keep out any food that could be used to alleviate the famine. This policy of non-intervention and the use of military force to prevent food from reaching desperate people has been widely criticized as inhumane and shortsighted.

Aftermath of the Famine

The aftermath of the Great Famine had a profound impact on Ireland. The population was reduced, and many people emigrated, primarily to the United States and the United Kingdom. The Famine's long-term effects on Irish society, the economy, and political relations with the British Empire cannot be overstated. It is a dark chapter in the history of both Ireland and the British Empire, and it brought about the decline of British influence in the region.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the British Empire's treatment of Ireland, especially during the Great Famine, does not align with the rhetoric of providing subsidies and protection that the British Tories often advocate. The Great Famine is a stark reminder of the harsh realities of colonial rule, lack of compassion, and the devastating consequences of government inaction. This period in history serves as a cautionary tale for modern policies and underlines the importance of humanitarian intervention during times of crisis.

Key Points

Title: What Did the British Empire Ever Do for Ireland?

Keywords: British Empire, Famine, Protection

Content:

This article explores the contentious history of the relationship between the British Empire and Ireland, focusing on the Great Famine of the 1840s. It discusses the perceived lack of support from the British government during this catastrophic period and highlights the complexity of the British Empire's policies.