British Policy Towards Ireland, 1921-1941

The Irish question did not, as some have supposed, vanish with the signing of the Anglo-Irish-Treaty of 1921, but continued to have lasting importance in British politics for many years to come. In this first comprehensive study of British policy towards Ireland during the 20 years following the treaty, Canning reveals how British attitudes toward Ireland continued to be affected by many factors, including domestic political considerations, defense concerns, the ongoing debate over Northern Ireland and the idea of Partition, and the broader perspective of British relations with the Dominions. Canning also examines the effect on 1ritish policymakers of changing perceptions of Ireland during the inter-war period, the process by which British policy was set, and the people who helped to shape it. Drawing on recently released official documents, private papers, interviews, and newspaper reports, this book provides a uniquely detailed picture of opinion, both public and private, which determined British policy in the inter-war years.