Message to the Free Nations of the World facts for kids

In 1919, a group called the First Dáil of the Irish Republic sent out an important message. It was called the Message to the Free Nations of the World. This message was approved by Dáil Éireann, which was like Ireland's parliament, on January 21, 1919.

The main goal of the message was to ask countries around the world to see Ireland as an independent nation. Ireland wanted to be free from British rule. The message was written in three languages: Irish, English, and French.

However, most countries didn't pay much attention to it. This was because World War I was just ending. An agreement to stop fighting had been signed. The war officially ended with the Treaty of Versailles in June 1919. Britain told its allies that it would handle the situation in Ireland itself. They said they would use new ideas about "self-determination," which means a country deciding its own future.

Because of this, President Wilson of the United States did not support Ireland's request. He would not recognize Ireland as an independent country. Britain then passed a law in 1920 called the Government of Ireland Act 1920. The Irish Republic was never officially recognized by any other country at that time.

Ireland's Plea for Freedom

The "Message to the Free Nations of the World" was a strong statement from Ireland. It explained why Ireland believed it should be a free nation.

Why Ireland Deserved Freedom

The message said that Ireland was very different from England. Ireland had its own unique history, language, customs, and traditions. It was one of Europe's oldest nations. Ireland had kept its national identity strong for over 700 years, even under foreign rule. The Irish people had always fought for their rights. They showed this in 1916, when they bravely tried to gain their independence.

Ireland's Important Location

The message also pointed out Ireland's special location. Ireland is like a gateway to the Atlantic Ocean. It is the last part of Europe before you reach the West. Many important trade routes between the East and West meet near Ireland.

The message argued that Ireland's independence was important for "Freedom of the Seas." This meant that Ireland's big harbors should be open to all nations. They should not be controlled only by England. At that time, these harbors were empty because of English policies. England wanted to keep Ireland as a military base for its own power. This meant Ireland's great location was not helping Europe or America. Instead, it was being used for England's goal of world control.

Belief in Justice and Peace

Ireland strongly believed in freedom and justice. These were seen as key ideas for how countries should act towards each other. The message said that countries should work together for equal rights. They should stand against old systems of unfair rule.

Lasting peace in Europe could not happen by keeping military control for the benefit of an empire. Instead, governments should be based on the free choice of their people. The message stated that the conflict between Ireland and England would only end when England's armed forces left Ireland completely.

A Call for Support

Because of these reasons, Ireland was determined to be free. It called on all free nations to support its claim for complete independence. Ireland wanted to be an Irish Republic. The message described England's claims as unfair and based on military occupation. Ireland demanded to discuss its case publicly with England at a meeting of nations. This way, the world could decide between England's wrongs and Ireland's rights. Ireland hoped the world would then support its independence forever.

See also

• Foreign relations of the Republic of Ireland