Work in Progress. Last updated: 30 April 2020
1
Griffith prepared a non-committal statement ‘which would contain, or appear to contain to the Ulstermen to contain, the evidence Lloyd George desired’. Both Barton and Gavan Duffy felt that the statement was so compromising to Irish interests that they strongly opposed the sending of the letter and Griffith redrafted.
The Filofax company begins operations.
Griffith prepared a non-committal statement ‘which would contain, or appear to contain to the Ulstermen to contain, the evidence Lloyd George desired’. Both Barton and Gavan Duffy felt that the statement was so compromising to Irish interests that they strongly opposed the sending of the letter and Griffith redrafted.
The Filofax company begins operations.
2
Griffith met with Birkenhead, Lloyd George and Churchill to discuss the re-drafted statement. British disatisfaction with the content was made clear and the statement was once again re-drafted to meet both British and Irish criteria. The final draft contained assurances of a free partnership of Ireland within the Commonwealth, recomending consent to recognition of the Crown as head of the Commonwealth, agreeing to the use of coastal facilites by the Navy and all concessions conditional on the recognition of the ‘essential unity of Ireland’. As regards Ulster, agreeing on any necessary safeguards, continuance of parliamentary powers and its commerce and industry would not be ‘hampered or discriminated in any way’.
Eugene O'Neill's Anna Christie premieres on Broadway.
American Birth Control League is formed from the merger of Margaret Sanger's National Birth Control League and Mary Ware Dennet's Voluntary Parenthood League.
Griffith met with Birkenhead, Lloyd George and Churchill to discuss the re-drafted statement. British disatisfaction with the content was made clear and the statement was once again re-drafted to meet both British and Irish criteria. The final draft contained assurances of a free partnership of Ireland within the Commonwealth, recomending consent to recognition of the Crown as head of the Commonwealth, agreeing to the use of coastal facilites by the Navy and all concessions conditional on the recognition of the ‘essential unity of Ireland’. As regards Ulster, agreeing on any necessary safeguards, continuance of parliamentary powers and its commerce and industry would not be ‘hampered or discriminated in any way’.
Eugene O'Neill's Anna Christie premieres on Broadway.
American Birth Control League is formed from the merger of Margaret Sanger's National Birth Control League and Mary Ware Dennet's Voluntary Parenthood League.
3
A copy of Griffith’s statement to Llloyd George was sent to De Valera advising that the British ‘are satisfied to face the ‘Ulster’ question on it, and assure me that if Ulster proves unreasonable they are prepared to reign rather than use force against us. In such an event no English Government is capable of formation on a war policy against us’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.556
Both Gavan-Duffy and Barton now felt that Griffith was in effect deluding Ulster into thinking that here was a possibility of the Delegation agreeing to a settlement to bring Ireland into the Empire while no such settlement was actually possible. There was some talk of their resigning but the final decision on the Griffith letter would rest with the Dublin Cabinet. Gavan Duffy now travelled to Dublin to advise de Valera on the inherent dangers in the British policy of dividing the delegation and only meeting with Collins and Griffith. De Valera showed no alarm at the anxieties of Barton, Duffy and Childers.
A copy of Griffith’s statement to Llloyd George was sent to De Valera advising that the British ‘are satisfied to face the ‘Ulster’ question on it, and assure me that if Ulster proves unreasonable they are prepared to reign rather than use force against us. In such an event no English Government is capable of formation on a war policy against us’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.556
Both Gavan-Duffy and Barton now felt that Griffith was in effect deluding Ulster into thinking that here was a possibility of the Delegation agreeing to a settlement to bring Ireland into the Empire while no such settlement was actually possible. There was some talk of their resigning but the final decision on the Griffith letter would rest with the Dublin Cabinet. Gavan Duffy now travelled to Dublin to advise de Valera on the inherent dangers in the British policy of dividing the delegation and only meeting with Collins and Griffith. De Valera showed no alarm at the anxieties of Barton, Duffy and Childers.
4
The Dail Cabinet reaffirmed the vote taken on September 15th to place the Volunteers under civil control and order recommissioning to begin with all staff members and divisional commanders issued with the rank of Commandant General with the commissions to take effect from November 25th. The power-play between Brugha and Mulcahy continued, with Mulcahy dismissed and reinstated twice by Brugha
In the House of Commons, it was alleged that Andy Cope was charged with stealing the Government cipher book and ‘giving it to the Shinns and also with having a safe conduct from them during the war. Even Ulstermen cannot really believe these things…Andy is no master of tact and before the truce made many enemies…The ‘Morning Post’ has ‘holl’a’d him away’ and the soldiers and policemen are in full cry…that he crippled their fighting efficiency by delay either because he was too busy plotting with the Shinns to take heed of their demands or because the Shinns persuaded him that peace was near and the guns etc our people demanded would be wasted. There are not wanting some who doubtless attribute to him a more sinister motive… I can well understand the feelings of the fighting man who over and over found himself held in check, one hand as it were tied behind his back owing to some ‘propaganda’ notion in London…in the last few days both Macready and Tudor have said to me …that if Cope comes back to lord it in the Castle, they will chuck their jobs…’
The Last Days of Dublin Castle – The Diaries of Mark Sturgis. Irish Academic Press Dublin & Oregon 1999. p 221-2
Lloyd George met with Sir James Craig, discussing the financial advantages of an All-Ireland parliament. The Prime Minister had earlier told his private secretary and co-incidentally, his mistress, Frances Stevenson ‘ that you could always get at a Presbyterian through his pocketbook’
George Dangerfield “ The Damnable Question - a study in Anglo-Irish relations” Constable, London. 1977. p334
It appeared as if Lloyd George was right with Craig appearing willing to come to terms with the offer of an Ulster Parliament subordinate to an all-Ireland parliament.
Crown Prince Hirohito becomes Japanese Emperor.
The Dail Cabinet reaffirmed the vote taken on September 15th to place the Volunteers under civil control and order recommissioning to begin with all staff members and divisional commanders issued with the rank of Commandant General with the commissions to take effect from November 25th. The power-play between Brugha and Mulcahy continued, with Mulcahy dismissed and reinstated twice by Brugha
In the House of Commons, it was alleged that Andy Cope was charged with stealing the Government cipher book and ‘giving it to the Shinns and also with having a safe conduct from them during the war. Even Ulstermen cannot really believe these things…Andy is no master of tact and before the truce made many enemies…The ‘Morning Post’ has ‘holl’a’d him away’ and the soldiers and policemen are in full cry…that he crippled their fighting efficiency by delay either because he was too busy plotting with the Shinns to take heed of their demands or because the Shinns persuaded him that peace was near and the guns etc our people demanded would be wasted. There are not wanting some who doubtless attribute to him a more sinister motive… I can well understand the feelings of the fighting man who over and over found himself held in check, one hand as it were tied behind his back owing to some ‘propaganda’ notion in London…in the last few days both Macready and Tudor have said to me …that if Cope comes back to lord it in the Castle, they will chuck their jobs…’
The Last Days of Dublin Castle – The Diaries of Mark Sturgis. Irish Academic Press Dublin & Oregon 1999. p 221-2
Lloyd George met with Sir James Craig, discussing the financial advantages of an All-Ireland parliament. The Prime Minister had earlier told his private secretary and co-incidentally, his mistress, Frances Stevenson ‘ that you could always get at a Presbyterian through his pocketbook’
George Dangerfield “ The Damnable Question - a study in Anglo-Irish relations” Constable, London. 1977. p334
It appeared as if Lloyd George was right with Craig appearing willing to come to terms with the offer of an Ulster Parliament subordinate to an all-Ireland parliament.
Crown Prince Hirohito becomes Japanese Emperor.
5
6
Michael Collins was back in Ireland and anxious to meet the man that evaded the Castle for so long, Sturgis sent him a note requesting an interview. ‘I want to talk of some general aspects and difficulties of the truce and to suggest that Murphy’s hands should be strengthened’
The Last Days of Dublin Castle – The Diaries of Mark Sturgis. Irish Academic Press Dublin & Oregon 1999. p 222
Michael Collins was back in Ireland and anxious to meet the man that evaded the Castle for so long, Sturgis sent him a note requesting an interview. ‘I want to talk of some general aspects and difficulties of the truce and to suggest that Murphy’s hands should be strengthened’
The Last Days of Dublin Castle – The Diaries of Mark Sturgis. Irish Academic Press Dublin & Oregon 1999. p 222
7
Sir James Craig obviously thought better of his earlier willingness to consider an All Ireland Parliament and now advised Lloyd George that ‘under no circumstances would he allow his Government to subordinate itself to an all Ireland Parliament.’
George Dangerfield “ The Damnable Question - a study in Anglo-Irish relations” Constable, London. 1977. p334
Lloyd George, while stating that unless Ulster would accept an all-Ireland parliament he would resign from politics, nonetheless began assembling a provisional plan.This would take the form of an Anglo-Irish treaty with Ulster included, but with an opt out clause for Ulster within 12 months of final agreement. Should Ulster decide to separate, which was virtually assured, a Boundary Commission would be set up with the brief to determine the border between Ulster and the rest of Ireland. In effect, Partition. However Lloyd George suggested ‘...It was to be rather more than hinted, a Boundary Commission would have to give large parts of Tyrone and Fermanagh, and smaller but important sections of Down, Derry and Armagh to Southern Ireland. What was left of Ulster would then become entirely too small for political or economic survival, and would fall like a ripe fruit into the lap of the Dublin Parliament.’
George Dangerfield “ The Damnable Question - a study in Anglo-Irish relations” Constable, London. 1977. p334-335
In Germany, the mark’s collapse continues. £1 now buys 1,200 marks.
Benito Mussolini, leader of the National Fascist Party declared himself ‘El Duce’ or leader, with 35 fascists in Parliament.
Sir James Craig obviously thought better of his earlier willingness to consider an All Ireland Parliament and now advised Lloyd George that ‘under no circumstances would he allow his Government to subordinate itself to an all Ireland Parliament.’
George Dangerfield “ The Damnable Question - a study in Anglo-Irish relations” Constable, London. 1977. p334
Lloyd George, while stating that unless Ulster would accept an all-Ireland parliament he would resign from politics, nonetheless began assembling a provisional plan.This would take the form of an Anglo-Irish treaty with Ulster included, but with an opt out clause for Ulster within 12 months of final agreement. Should Ulster decide to separate, which was virtually assured, a Boundary Commission would be set up with the brief to determine the border between Ulster and the rest of Ireland. In effect, Partition. However Lloyd George suggested ‘...It was to be rather more than hinted, a Boundary Commission would have to give large parts of Tyrone and Fermanagh, and smaller but important sections of Down, Derry and Armagh to Southern Ireland. What was left of Ulster would then become entirely too small for political or economic survival, and would fall like a ripe fruit into the lap of the Dublin Parliament.’
George Dangerfield “ The Damnable Question - a study in Anglo-Irish relations” Constable, London. 1977. p334-335
In Germany, the mark’s collapse continues. £1 now buys 1,200 marks.
Benito Mussolini, leader of the National Fascist Party declared himself ‘El Duce’ or leader, with 35 fascists in Parliament.
8
The Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister, Thomas Jones, offered details of Lloyd George’s provisional plan on Ulster and the Boundary Commission to Collins and Griffith. This was recognised for what it was, partition of Ireland. A plebiscite on the matter was Griffith’s preference with Collins said that it sacrificed the key tenent of the struggle, unity of both Southern and Northern Ireland. Lloyd George also had an preferable alternative to reignation, the offer of partion and a boundary commission to Ulster.
Childers writing to his wife ‘I have a reputation for overwork because I don’t go junketing, theatre going etc. Couldn’t stand it and work would suffer anyway if I did…I hate the very idea of merry making in this city at this time, there is too much of it’
He also refused to sit for Sir John Lavery.
Sinead McCoole ‘Hazel – A Life of Lady Lavery 1880-1935’. Lilliput Press, Dublin 1996. P79
Sturgis met with Michael Collins and later wrote:
‘Meeting him for the first time there is certainly nothing impressive about him. He is just like the big young pleasant prosperous self satisfied cattle dealer in a big way of business with which Ireland is full, and he is certainly as Macready says much too quick to make jokes of everything and often bad ones. But he is undoubtedly quick to understand and I should imagine is twice the man if he is up against you than he is when his obvious object is to be agreeable. Strong, brave and quite ruthless. I was with him and Fintan Murphy for more than two hours and we went pretty thoroughly into the weakness of the truce as a business proposition.’
Sturgis discussed the role of the Sinn Fein police and how far ‘they could be usefully employed in helping keep Ireland quiet during these increasingly difficult weeks in which the conference dragged on in London….during the whole two hours he gave no hint and nothing to suggest that he anticipated in any way the breakdown of the Conference or the resumption of further fighting…this is also the view of the general public in Dublin who persist in the belief that the whole thing is really over and squared and even Ulster is largely bluffing for window dressing purposes….Collins certainly gave it to me as his own opinion that there was an element of bluff in the Ulster position…he was equally frank when he spoke of the stupid things his people had done and were quite capable of doing now unless firmly handled…I certainly thought more of him at the end of the interview than the beginning. He was quick to see and to admit the growing difficulties of a jerry built truce and made no sort of attempt to score or make points against me…’
The Last Days of Dublin Castle – The Diaries of Mark Sturgis. Irish Academic Press Dublin & Oregon 1999. p 222-3
The Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister, Thomas Jones, offered details of Lloyd George’s provisional plan on Ulster and the Boundary Commission to Collins and Griffith. This was recognised for what it was, partition of Ireland. A plebiscite on the matter was Griffith’s preference with Collins said that it sacrificed the key tenent of the struggle, unity of both Southern and Northern Ireland. Lloyd George also had an preferable alternative to reignation, the offer of partion and a boundary commission to Ulster.
Childers writing to his wife ‘I have a reputation for overwork because I don’t go junketing, theatre going etc. Couldn’t stand it and work would suffer anyway if I did…I hate the very idea of merry making in this city at this time, there is too much of it’
He also refused to sit for Sir John Lavery.
Sinead McCoole ‘Hazel – A Life of Lady Lavery 1880-1935’. Lilliput Press, Dublin 1996. P79
Sturgis met with Michael Collins and later wrote:
‘Meeting him for the first time there is certainly nothing impressive about him. He is just like the big young pleasant prosperous self satisfied cattle dealer in a big way of business with which Ireland is full, and he is certainly as Macready says much too quick to make jokes of everything and often bad ones. But he is undoubtedly quick to understand and I should imagine is twice the man if he is up against you than he is when his obvious object is to be agreeable. Strong, brave and quite ruthless. I was with him and Fintan Murphy for more than two hours and we went pretty thoroughly into the weakness of the truce as a business proposition.’
Sturgis discussed the role of the Sinn Fein police and how far ‘they could be usefully employed in helping keep Ireland quiet during these increasingly difficult weeks in which the conference dragged on in London….during the whole two hours he gave no hint and nothing to suggest that he anticipated in any way the breakdown of the Conference or the resumption of further fighting…this is also the view of the general public in Dublin who persist in the belief that the whole thing is really over and squared and even Ulster is largely bluffing for window dressing purposes….Collins certainly gave it to me as his own opinion that there was an element of bluff in the Ulster position…he was equally frank when he spoke of the stupid things his people had done and were quite capable of doing now unless firmly handled…I certainly thought more of him at the end of the interview than the beginning. He was quick to see and to admit the growing difficulties of a jerry built truce and made no sort of attempt to score or make points against me…’
The Last Days of Dublin Castle – The Diaries of Mark Sturgis. Irish Academic Press Dublin & Oregon 1999. p 222-3
9
de Valera wrote to Griffith advising not to ‘budge a single inch from the point to where the negotiations have now led us’.
The body of the United States ‘Unknown Soldier’ arrived from France for burial in Arlington National cemetery.
de Valera wrote to Griffith advising not to ‘budge a single inch from the point to where the negotiations have now led us’.
The body of the United States ‘Unknown Soldier’ arrived from France for burial in Arlington National cemetery.
10
Lloyd George now sent a letter to Craig, a formal invitation to the conference, outlining the proposals agreed to by the Irish delegation and the financial losses which Northern Ireland would suffer if it remained part of the UK.
Lloyd George now sent a letter to Craig, a formal invitation to the conference, outlining the proposals agreed to by the Irish delegation and the financial losses which Northern Ireland would suffer if it remained part of the UK.
11
Lloyd George’s offer of a seat for Northern Ireland at the Conference table was rejected by Craig who also began agitating for Dominion Status for the six counties.
Arthur Griffith was asked to join the Irish delegation to Treaty negotiations by de Valera. Griffith said ‘You are my Chief, and if you tell me to go, I’ll go. But I know, and you know, that I can't bring back a Republic.’
Conor O’Clery ‘Ireland in Quotes’ The O’Brien Press Dublin 1999 p.55
First American Birth Control Conference conducted in New York City, led by Margaret Sanger.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier established, with burial of the unknown soldier at Washington, D.C.'s, Arlington National Cemetery.
Lloyd George’s offer of a seat for Northern Ireland at the Conference table was rejected by Craig who also began agitating for Dominion Status for the six counties.
Arthur Griffith was asked to join the Irish delegation to Treaty negotiations by de Valera. Griffith said ‘You are my Chief, and if you tell me to go, I’ll go. But I know, and you know, that I can't bring back a Republic.’
Conor O’Clery ‘Ireland in Quotes’ The O’Brien Press Dublin 1999 p.55
First American Birth Control Conference conducted in New York City, led by Margaret Sanger.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier established, with burial of the unknown soldier at Washington, D.C.'s, Arlington National Cemetery.
12
The complex manoueverings on the Treaty negotiations continued. Lloyd George knew that Griffith was a moderate and so targeted him to agree to accept details of the Boundary Commission and to a tacit agreement on the Partition of Ireland. Griffith met with Lloyd George alone, and was told that Bonar Law was threatening to revolt on the Government’s Irish policy at the Conservative Party Conference in Liverpool on the 17th. In addition, Sir Archibald Salvidge ( the Conservative Party Boss ) was to be persuaded by Lord Birkenhead and Austen Chamberlain, to present at the Conference, details of the proposed Boundary Commission. Griffith was told that unless the Government had his assurances he would not obstruct the Commission, Sir Archibald could not present the details and so quell the revolt. Griffith read the memorandum, agreed to it and so agreed to an acceptance of the Partition of Ireland.
One historian, Pakenham in ‘Peace by Ordeal’ believed that Griffith believed the Boundary Commission was still one of mere manoeuver against the Ulster Unionists and that no such settlement could actually be enforced.
Griffith wrote to de Valera that Lloyd George ‘intimated this would be their last word to Ulster. If they refused, as he believed they would, he would fight, summon Parliament, appeal to it against Ulster, dissolve or pass an Act establishing the All-Ireland Parliament. ‘
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.562
Lloyd George now had Thomas Jones write the agreement in memorandum.
International Disarmament Conference gets underway in Washington, D.C. to address mutual concerns about a developing post-war arms race. Out of the gate, U.S. Secretary of State Charles Evans Hughes offers a proposal that stuns the delegates: that the major powers stop building large navy ships for 10 years. U.S., Britain, France, Japan, and Italy agree to the terms by the conference's end on Feb. 6, 1922.
Below: Friends of Irish Freedom circular on renewal of membership. Details and transcription to follow.
The complex manoueverings on the Treaty negotiations continued. Lloyd George knew that Griffith was a moderate and so targeted him to agree to accept details of the Boundary Commission and to a tacit agreement on the Partition of Ireland. Griffith met with Lloyd George alone, and was told that Bonar Law was threatening to revolt on the Government’s Irish policy at the Conservative Party Conference in Liverpool on the 17th. In addition, Sir Archibald Salvidge ( the Conservative Party Boss ) was to be persuaded by Lord Birkenhead and Austen Chamberlain, to present at the Conference, details of the proposed Boundary Commission. Griffith was told that unless the Government had his assurances he would not obstruct the Commission, Sir Archibald could not present the details and so quell the revolt. Griffith read the memorandum, agreed to it and so agreed to an acceptance of the Partition of Ireland.
One historian, Pakenham in ‘Peace by Ordeal’ believed that Griffith believed the Boundary Commission was still one of mere manoeuver against the Ulster Unionists and that no such settlement could actually be enforced.
Griffith wrote to de Valera that Lloyd George ‘intimated this would be their last word to Ulster. If they refused, as he believed they would, he would fight, summon Parliament, appeal to it against Ulster, dissolve or pass an Act establishing the All-Ireland Parliament. ‘
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.562
Lloyd George now had Thomas Jones write the agreement in memorandum.
International Disarmament Conference gets underway in Washington, D.C. to address mutual concerns about a developing post-war arms race. Out of the gate, U.S. Secretary of State Charles Evans Hughes offers a proposal that stuns the delegates: that the major powers stop building large navy ships for 10 years. U.S., Britain, France, Japan, and Italy agree to the terms by the conference's end on Feb. 6, 1922.
Below: Friends of Irish Freedom circular on renewal of membership. Details and transcription to follow.
13
Griffith was now shown the memorandum as written the previous day and ‘birefly indicated his assent to the proposals’ Macardle comments that by stage in the Anglo-Irish negotiations, the situation was that ‘given an all-Ireland Parliament the Republicans might accept Crown and Empire, given Crown and Empire, the Ulstermen might consent to an All-Ireland Parliament’
Griffith was now shown the memorandum as written the previous day and ‘birefly indicated his assent to the proposals’ Macardle comments that by stage in the Anglo-Irish negotiations, the situation was that ‘given an all-Ireland Parliament the Republicans might accept Crown and Empire, given Crown and Empire, the Ulstermen might consent to an All-Ireland Parliament’
14
Lloyd George wrote to Craig repeating his request for Unionist attendance in the Anglo-Irish talks and commenting on the negatives aspects of the establishment of two Dominions, that would ‘stereotype a frontier, based upon neither natural features nr broad geographical considerations, by giving it the character of an international boundary. Partition on these lines the majority of Irish people will never accept, nor could we consientiously attempt to enforce it.’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.563
Childers met with de Valera in Dublin to express his anxieties at the route the talks were taking.
Lloyd George wrote to Craig repeating his request for Unionist attendance in the Anglo-Irish talks and commenting on the negatives aspects of the establishment of two Dominions, that would ‘stereotype a frontier, based upon neither natural features nr broad geographical considerations, by giving it the character of an international boundary. Partition on these lines the majority of Irish people will never accept, nor could we consientiously attempt to enforce it.’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.563
Childers met with de Valera in Dublin to express his anxieties at the route the talks were taking.
15
The general consensus of political opinion in Dublin was that the Peace talks would break down sooner rather than later and so provisional plans in event of renewed hostilities continued. The Second External Loan of the Republic prevented from floatation in August was now floated with $20 million as the target to ‘enable the Irish Republic to function, to preserve its integrity and to achieve its recognition’
The general consensus of political opinion in Dublin was that the Peace talks would break down sooner rather than later and so provisional plans in event of renewed hostilities continued. The Second External Loan of the Republic prevented from floatation in August was now floated with $20 million as the target to ‘enable the Irish Republic to function, to preserve its integrity and to achieve its recognition’
16
As far as the Unionists in the South were concerned, the writing was fairly clear that some form of indpendence from Britain was probable and a delegation met with Griffith. Led by the Earl Of Middleton, Dr. Bernard - Provost of Trinity College and Andrew Jameison, assurances were sought and received that Griffith would recommend safeguards in their interests.
Michael Collins arrived unannounced at Sir John and Lady Hazel Lavery’s Cromwell Place home for a portrait sitting. Sir John recalled ‘Hazel got in touch with Collin’s sister and one morning he walked into my studio, a tall young Hercules with a pasty face, sparkling eyes and a fascinating smile. I helped him off with a heavy overcoat to which he clung, excusing himself by saying casually ‘There’s a gun in the pocket’.’ There is no record of Hazel’s first impressions, though John remembered Collins’s alertness and desire to sit facing the door. That night Collins wrote to Kitty Kiernan…’By the way I sat today for my portrait – my interesting life! Absolute torture as I was expected to keep still, and this, as you know, is a thing I cannot do…Sir John Lavery is painting me. Will probably get photograph of the painting, so I’ll send you one.’
Sinead McCoole ‘Hazel – A Life of Lady Lavery 1880-1935’. Lilliput Press, Dublin 1996. P75
As far as the Unionists in the South were concerned, the writing was fairly clear that some form of indpendence from Britain was probable and a delegation met with Griffith. Led by the Earl Of Middleton, Dr. Bernard - Provost of Trinity College and Andrew Jameison, assurances were sought and received that Griffith would recommend safeguards in their interests.
Michael Collins arrived unannounced at Sir John and Lady Hazel Lavery’s Cromwell Place home for a portrait sitting. Sir John recalled ‘Hazel got in touch with Collin’s sister and one morning he walked into my studio, a tall young Hercules with a pasty face, sparkling eyes and a fascinating smile. I helped him off with a heavy overcoat to which he clung, excusing himself by saying casually ‘There’s a gun in the pocket’.’ There is no record of Hazel’s first impressions, though John remembered Collins’s alertness and desire to sit facing the door. That night Collins wrote to Kitty Kiernan…’By the way I sat today for my portrait – my interesting life! Absolute torture as I was expected to keep still, and this, as you know, is a thing I cannot do…Sir John Lavery is painting me. Will probably get photograph of the painting, so I’ll send you one.’
Sinead McCoole ‘Hazel – A Life of Lady Lavery 1880-1935’. Lilliput Press, Dublin 1996. P75
17
The National Unionist Conference opened in Liverpool attended by some 2,000 delegates. A resoloution condemning the Government for its negotiaions with Sinn Fein was moved and developed into ‘a tense conflict between those who wished the Irish negotiaions to continue and those who wished to bring them to a sharp end. The resoloution was defeated and an amendment in favour of continuining the Conference was passed’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.565
Craig replied to Lloyd George outlining the fundamental problem the Ulster Unionists faced with an All-Ireland Parliament, governmnt by Sinn Fein and sumarised the Unionist position which remains to this day: ‘if you force Ulster to leave the United Kingdo against the wishes of her people, she desires to be left in a position to make her own fiscal and international policy conform as nearly as possible with the policy of the Mother Country, and to retain British traditions, British currency, British ideals and the British language, and in this way to render the disadvantages entailed by her seperation from Great Britain as slight as possible’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.564
What was the British perception of Irish public opinion at this time? A British army inteligence report noted ‘the people seem optomistic but most feel they will get whatever they want without any more bloodshed’
Arthur Mitchell ‘Revoloutionary Government in Ireland – Dail Eireann 1919-22’ Gill & McMillan 1996. P322
The National Unionist Conference opened in Liverpool attended by some 2,000 delegates. A resoloution condemning the Government for its negotiaions with Sinn Fein was moved and developed into ‘a tense conflict between those who wished the Irish negotiaions to continue and those who wished to bring them to a sharp end. The resoloution was defeated and an amendment in favour of continuining the Conference was passed’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.565
Craig replied to Lloyd George outlining the fundamental problem the Ulster Unionists faced with an All-Ireland Parliament, governmnt by Sinn Fein and sumarised the Unionist position which remains to this day: ‘if you force Ulster to leave the United Kingdo against the wishes of her people, she desires to be left in a position to make her own fiscal and international policy conform as nearly as possible with the policy of the Mother Country, and to retain British traditions, British currency, British ideals and the British language, and in this way to render the disadvantages entailed by her seperation from Great Britain as slight as possible’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.564
What was the British perception of Irish public opinion at this time? A British army inteligence report noted ‘the people seem optomistic but most feel they will get whatever they want without any more bloodshed’
Arthur Mitchell ‘Revoloutionary Government in Ireland – Dail Eireann 1919-22’ Gill & McMillan 1996. P322
18
US – New York – the city police chief says cocaine, heroin and synthetic drugs are entering the US from Germany.
US – New York – the city police chief says cocaine, heroin and synthetic drugs are entering the US from Germany.
19
de Valera elected Chancelor of the National University of Ireland.
de Valera elected Chancelor of the National University of Ireland.
20
Sir John Lavery received an anonymous letter warning ‘his painting of ‘the murderer’ Collins would no doubt be ‘hung at No. 10 Downign Street by his riend and fellow republican, Lloyd George’
Sinead McCoole ‘Hazel – A Life of Lady Lavery 1880-1935’. Lilliput Press, Dublin 1996. P74
Dominions Secretary Winston Churchill joked with Collins about the bounty that was on his head before the Truce and the price tag the Boers had placed on his some twenty years earlier: ‘It was a good price, £5,000. Look at me, £25 dead of alive! How would you like that?’
Sir John Lavery received an anonymous letter warning ‘his painting of ‘the murderer’ Collins would no doubt be ‘hung at No. 10 Downign Street by his riend and fellow republican, Lloyd George’
Sinead McCoole ‘Hazel – A Life of Lady Lavery 1880-1935’. Lilliput Press, Dublin 1996. P74
Dominions Secretary Winston Churchill joked with Collins about the bounty that was on his head before the Truce and the price tag the Boers had placed on his some twenty years earlier: ‘It was a good price, £5,000. Look at me, £25 dead of alive! How would you like that?’
21
Troops are called in to restore order as rioting breaks out in east Belfast.
Troops are called in to restore order as rioting breaks out in east Belfast.
22
Widespread shootings in Belfast leave 10 dead.
The Government of Northern Ireland took over imperial control of the RIC for the area.
Widespread shootings in Belfast leave 10 dead.
The Government of Northern Ireland took over imperial control of the RIC for the area.
23
In the US, a prohibition loophole, where doctors could prescribe beer, was closed by President Harding.
In the US, a prohibition loophole, where doctors could prescribe beer, was closed by President Harding.
24
de Valera issued a directive to ‘prepare for an immediate breakdown in the Peace Negotiations. Plans for safeguarding documents etc should be taken in hands at once and only the necessary minimum kept in the working office’
Arthur Mitchell ‘Revoloutionary Government in Ireland – Dail Eireann 1919-22’ Gill & McMillan 1996. P316
Plans were also finalised for an all out attack on all offices representing the British Government. These had been mostly completed up to when the Truce was declared.
A British army inteligence report commented ‘An early settlement is expected…and the I.R.A are boasting about what they will do when they get Home Rule’
Arthur Mitchell ‘Revoloutionary Government in Ireland – Dail Eireann 1919-22’ Gill & McMillan 1996. P322
de Valera issued a directive to ‘prepare for an immediate breakdown in the Peace Negotiations. Plans for safeguarding documents etc should be taken in hands at once and only the necessary minimum kept in the working office’
Arthur Mitchell ‘Revoloutionary Government in Ireland – Dail Eireann 1919-22’ Gill & McMillan 1996. P316
Plans were also finalised for an all out attack on all offices representing the British Government. These had been mostly completed up to when the Truce was declared.
A British army inteligence report commented ‘An early settlement is expected…and the I.R.A are boasting about what they will do when they get Home Rule’
Arthur Mitchell ‘Revoloutionary Government in Ireland – Dail Eireann 1919-22’ Gill & McMillan 1996. P322
25
Agreement was reached at the London peace talks that Ireland shall recognise the British Crown for the purpose of association as symbol and accepted head of the combination of Associated States. It was also agreed that Ireland should vote an annual voluntary contribution to the King’s personal revenue, the British Civil List and that the government would be formed exclusivly from publicly eleclted representatives.
An undercurrent relating to the London Talks was picked up during an investigation of Diarmuid Lynch’s papers in the National Library of Ireland, in that it was alleged Collin’s drank “ a great deal too much, and that his attitude on the Treaty was influenced thereby...there is a saying that ‘Slander is the Irish sin’...I am convinced that Collins was a victim in this respect...a decade later, an author interviewing me in Dublin seeking confirmation of other allegations against Collins - this time against his moral character. Having replied to the question, I could not resist this muck-raking effort... Collins was neither a moral or a physical coward...in fact he was anything but...”
Diarmuid Lynch to Geraldine Dillon ( sister of Joseph Plunket ) 1946. Diarmuid Lynch papers. National Library of Ireland MS 31-409(8).
The reality generally accepted is that Collins did drink, but not to the extent that it compromised his negotiations with the British.
Collins, Griffith and Barton returned to Dublin for a cabinet meeting and progress report.
With the possibility of the most important plebiscite yet, Dail Eireann ordered the electoral register be brought up to date. The Register had not been updated in over three years with a great deal of the population remaining disenfranchised.
The first killing of an RIC officer since the truce took place in Belfast when John McHenry was shot dead.
Agreement was reached at the London peace talks that Ireland shall recognise the British Crown for the purpose of association as symbol and accepted head of the combination of Associated States. It was also agreed that Ireland should vote an annual voluntary contribution to the King’s personal revenue, the British Civil List and that the government would be formed exclusivly from publicly eleclted representatives.
An undercurrent relating to the London Talks was picked up during an investigation of Diarmuid Lynch’s papers in the National Library of Ireland, in that it was alleged Collin’s drank “ a great deal too much, and that his attitude on the Treaty was influenced thereby...there is a saying that ‘Slander is the Irish sin’...I am convinced that Collins was a victim in this respect...a decade later, an author interviewing me in Dublin seeking confirmation of other allegations against Collins - this time against his moral character. Having replied to the question, I could not resist this muck-raking effort... Collins was neither a moral or a physical coward...in fact he was anything but...”
Diarmuid Lynch to Geraldine Dillon ( sister of Joseph Plunket ) 1946. Diarmuid Lynch papers. National Library of Ireland MS 31-409(8).
The reality generally accepted is that Collins did drink, but not to the extent that it compromised his negotiations with the British.
Collins, Griffith and Barton returned to Dublin for a cabinet meeting and progress report.
With the possibility of the most important plebiscite yet, Dail Eireann ordered the electoral register be brought up to date. The Register had not been updated in over three years with a great deal of the population remaining disenfranchised.
The first killing of an RIC officer since the truce took place in Belfast when John McHenry was shot dead.
26
27
Alexander Dubcek, future Czech Leader during the Russian invasion 1968, born. ( Died 7.11.92 )
Alexander Dubcek, future Czech Leader during the Russian invasion 1968, born. ( Died 7.11.92 )
28
The Irish Negotiating team returned and handed a memeorandum on External Association to the British. That evening the British delegates declared that the Irish proposals of abrogation to the Crown were impossible but invited the delegates to include a clause in the Treaty which would ensure the functions of the Crown in Ireland would be no less than in the Dominions. In return the proposed oath would be altered accordingly and that any nominal head of state would be appointed only in consultation with the Irish Ministry.
The Morning Post carried an examination by General Sir Charles Callwell of the most effective and economic military methods of supression that may be used against the Irish.
Back in Dublin, preparations and plans for the anticipated resumption in hostilities continued.
After Westminster decided to hand over responsibility for local government to Stormont, Tyrone County Council pledged its allegiance to Dáil Éireann. Eight smaller public bodies followed. That same day a bill was introduced in Stormont which allowed it to dissolve any local authority. Offices of Tyrone County Council were subsequently raided by the police and their records seized on 2 December 1921
The Irish Negotiating team returned and handed a memeorandum on External Association to the British. That evening the British delegates declared that the Irish proposals of abrogation to the Crown were impossible but invited the delegates to include a clause in the Treaty which would ensure the functions of the Crown in Ireland would be no less than in the Dominions. In return the proposed oath would be altered accordingly and that any nominal head of state would be appointed only in consultation with the Irish Ministry.
The Morning Post carried an examination by General Sir Charles Callwell of the most effective and economic military methods of supression that may be used against the Irish.
Back in Dublin, preparations and plans for the anticipated resumption in hostilities continued.
After Westminster decided to hand over responsibility for local government to Stormont, Tyrone County Council pledged its allegiance to Dáil Éireann. Eight smaller public bodies followed. That same day a bill was introduced in Stormont which allowed it to dissolve any local authority. Offices of Tyrone County Council were subsequently raided by the police and their records seized on 2 December 1921
29
At a Downing Street Meeting, Griffith was advised that the British delegates intended to have final proposals ready within a week and would send them on December 6th to the Irish Delegation and duplicates to Sir James Craig. Griffith received assurances that the proposals would be sent first to the Irish Delegation on December 1st. Griffith wrote to de Valera that he would be returning to Dublin on Friday, December 2nd and requested a Cabinet meeting for the following day.
Craig had also received assurances and announced in Belfast that ‘by Thursday next ether negotiations will have broken down or the Prime Minister will send me new proposals for consideration by the Cabinet. In the meantime the rights of Ulster will be in no way sacrificed or compromised…. Sinn Fein fully alive as it is now to our unflinching determination not to go into an All-Ireland Parliament, has to say by Tuesday next [ December 6th ] if she will still work for a settlement or else all negotiations are broken off…’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.574
De Valera wrote to Harry Boland: ‘As things stand today it means war. The British ultimatum is allegiance to their King. We will never recommend that such allegiance be rendered…without explanation you will understand that if I appear with those who shoose war it is only because the alternative is impossible without dishonour. As far as I am concerned it is now External Association, Yes; Internal Association involving allegiance, no.’
Longford & O’Neill. “Eamon De Valera” Gill & McMillan. 1970. P158
At a Downing Street Meeting, Griffith was advised that the British delegates intended to have final proposals ready within a week and would send them on December 6th to the Irish Delegation and duplicates to Sir James Craig. Griffith received assurances that the proposals would be sent first to the Irish Delegation on December 1st. Griffith wrote to de Valera that he would be returning to Dublin on Friday, December 2nd and requested a Cabinet meeting for the following day.
Craig had also received assurances and announced in Belfast that ‘by Thursday next ether negotiations will have broken down or the Prime Minister will send me new proposals for consideration by the Cabinet. In the meantime the rights of Ulster will be in no way sacrificed or compromised…. Sinn Fein fully alive as it is now to our unflinching determination not to go into an All-Ireland Parliament, has to say by Tuesday next [ December 6th ] if she will still work for a settlement or else all negotiations are broken off…’
Macardle. ’ The Irish Republic’ Irish Press, Dublin 1957. P.574
De Valera wrote to Harry Boland: ‘As things stand today it means war. The British ultimatum is allegiance to their King. We will never recommend that such allegiance be rendered…without explanation you will understand that if I appear with those who shoose war it is only because the alternative is impossible without dishonour. As far as I am concerned it is now External Association, Yes; Internal Association involving allegiance, no.’
Longford & O’Neill. “Eamon De Valera” Gill & McMillan. 1970. P158
30
Speaking to the IRA's Mid Clare Brigade, de Valera said "We know the terrorism, we know the savagery that can be used against us, and we defy it". He and Cathal Brugha had spent a week reviewing IRA brigades in counties Galway, Clare and Limerick. Preparations were being made in case the negotiations broke down.
In the NI Parliament, James Craig blamed Sinn Féin for the recent violence and stated that 700 A-Specials and 5,000 B-Specials would be enrolled immediately. Around this time, Divisional Commissioner of the RIC in the North ordered his men to regard the truce as non-existent
Speaking to the IRA's Mid Clare Brigade, de Valera said "We know the terrorism, we know the savagery that can be used against us, and we defy it". He and Cathal Brugha had spent a week reviewing IRA brigades in counties Galway, Clare and Limerick. Preparations were being made in case the negotiations broke down.
In the NI Parliament, James Craig blamed Sinn Féin for the recent violence and stated that 700 A-Specials and 5,000 B-Specials would be enrolled immediately. Around this time, Divisional Commissioner of the RIC in the North ordered his men to regard the truce as non-existent