ABSTRACT
This chapter reveals that much of Ireland's struggle for independence was won because of tactics advocated by non-violent activists. It was the boycotts, protests, petitions, noncooperation and mobilization of alternative governments that mobilized the political will to create an independent Ireland. What follows is a summary of non-violence in Irish history during the vital period of 1910 to 1923. The chapter argues that non-violent actions, particularly that of mass mobilization to pressure the legislative process as well as noncooperation in setting up an alternative government, were the primary forces that moved Ireland toward independence. When looking back at Irish history, scholars can note the many failed rebellions led by true believers willing to be martyrs for the cause of the Republic. The effective use of boycotts, meetings, rallies, petitions, strikes, and other non-violent techniques changed the relationship of the people of Ireland to their systems of political power.
