Question 1
Evaluate the interpretations in both of the two passages and explain which you think is more convincing as an explanation of the tactics of the Ulster Unionists in opposing Home Rule in the
years from 1912 to 1914.
Passage A
For all the political fireworks of 1912, Home Rule was still well on course by January 1913. Failure to move the government encouraged Ulstermen to intensify their own efforts. Backbench Tory MPs used their influence and expertise to help Ulstermen to raise money and hire recruits. Early in 1913 the scattered units of men that had begun drilling in rural districts were concentrated into a single paramilitary group, the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF). Publicly, it was intended to guard the interests of Ulstermen, and to threaten physical resistance to the imposition of Home Rule. Privately, Ulster leaders regarded it as a useful propaganda vehicle, the focus of multiple photo-opportunities and press coverage. For Carson and the Ulster leadership, it was a political device to frighten the Ministry. The danger was that if a satisfactory compromise was not reached, it would have to fall back on its military potential; if its ‘bark’ was not enough then all it had left was its ‘bite’.
Whatever the military effectiveness of the force, historians have suggested its development marks a point of departure in the Ulster Crisis when events lurched ominously towards physical-force methods as a means of solving Ireland’s problems. By 1914, the UVF had become a real military force behind the Ulster Provisional Government. The government could no longer rely on its army to crush, if need be, rebellion in Ulster.
Adapted from: J. Smith, Britain and Ireland, From Home Rule to Independence, published in 1999.
Passage B
In response to speeches by Asquith and Redmond in 1912, the Unionists arranged for Andrew Bonar Law to address a public speech to large crowds. The viewpoint of Ulster Unionists was laid out clearly. Subsequently, as the Home Rule Bill made its way through the House of Commons, the Ulster Unionists made plans for a show of political strength and solidarity which would, hopefully, force the Liberal government’s hand. Gestures, images and symbols became all-important in the debate over Home Rule. They drew up an agreement that outlined their position regarding Home Rule in clear and unambiguous language. This became a powerful message to Asquith’s government.
The Ulster Unionists had strong support among the more patriotic elements of British society. Debates were held in liberal circles about the possibility of a compromise over Ulster. This discussion became public in newspapers. Although in public Carson and the Unionist leadership claimed that they would not accept any proposal which divided Ulster, by 1914 both he and the Unionist leadership were engaged in negotiations over the potential for terms of compromise in Ulster. That no deal was reached reflects the deeply entrenched positions taken by either side.
Adapted from: M. Collier, Britain and Ireland, 1867–1922, published in 2008.
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Answer
