Repeal Association facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Repeal Association
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|---|---|
| Leader | Daniel O'Connell |
| Founded | 1830 |
| Dissolved | 1848 |
| Preceded by | Catholic Association |
| Ideology | Irish nationalism Irish autonomy National liberalism Catholic emancipation |
| Political position | Centre-left |
The Repeal Association was an important political group in Ireland. It was started by a famous leader named Daniel O'Connell in 1830. Their main goal was to "repeal" or cancel the Acts of Union of 1800.
These Acts had joined Great Britain and Ireland into one country. The Association wanted Ireland to have its own parliament again, but still be part of the British Crown. This idea was similar to what Henry Grattan had achieved briefly in the 1780s.
A big difference this time was that Catholics could now be fully involved. This was thanks to the Act of Emancipation in 1829. Also, more people could vote after the Reform Act of 1832.
When the Repeal Association didn't succeed by the late 1840s, a new group called the Young Ireland movement began.
Contents
What Was the Repeal Association's Goal?
The main aim of the Repeal Association was to bring back Ireland's own parliament. Before 1800, Ireland had its own law-making body. But the Acts of Union changed this, making laws for Ireland in London.
Daniel O'Connell and his followers believed that having their own parliament would be better for Ireland. They wanted Ireland to make its own decisions about its future.
How Did They Try to Achieve Their Goal?
The Repeal Association worked to get their ideas heard in the British Parliament. They supported candidates who believed in repealing the Acts of Union. These candidates ran in elections in Ireland.
For a few years, from 1835 to 1841, the Repealers worked with another political group called the Whigs. They hoped that by working together, they could gain more power and make changes.
Repealer candidates also ran in the general elections of 1841 and 1847. They tried to win as many seats as possible to push for their cause.
What Happened to the Repeal Association?
Despite their efforts, the Repeal Association did not achieve its main goal. The Acts of Union were not repealed. The movement faced many challenges and eventually faded away by 1848.
However, their work inspired future generations of Irish nationalists. The ideas of Irish self-governance continued to be important. The Young Ireland movement, which came after, took up some of their goals.
See also
