Cycnos | Numéros | Volume 15.2 - Irlande - Exils

Résumé :

This paper examines the drastic decline in the Protestant population over the period 1911-1926, which encompasses the ultimate stage of the nationalist struggle, the Civil War and the birth of the new state. Intimidation and violence probably played an important part in prompting the exodus of the minority. Despite the efforts of the new authorities to reassure the Protestant community, the reality of everyday life was difficult and the future seemed very uncertain, which explains why a large number of families fled with the feeling that they had no alternative. Since the 1920s the Protestant population has kept declining, at a lower pace, due to emigration, mixed marriages and a lower birth rate than the Catholics. However the mood is fairly positive for the Protestant community which can rely on the support of public opinion and a general willingness to accommodate different trends and traditions in Irish society.

Date de publication : 2008-07-09