Ireland

The Role of Religion

Since the time of St. Patrick in the 5th century, Ireland has been largely Catholic. Religion played a significant role in constituting an ethnic Irish identity, partly because it helped differentiate Irish from English. However, the English negative image of the Irish was not solely associated with religion; apparent differences from the English were used to create the Irish as “others.” High taxes and English economic and political favoritism of the New English planters resulted in economic hardship for the majority in Ireland.

In an effort to establish firm control in Ireland, extend their influence “beyond the Pale,” and settle Ireland with loyal English, the English established many laws favoring New English and Protestants. Examples include recusancy fines, the Act for the Settling of Ireland, the Penals Laws, and restricting Parliament to Protestants only. Although their rule had created the impoverished situation of the Irish, the English viewed the unemployed, poor, and powerless Irish as deserving their lot because of laziness, stupidity, and backwardness, which helped to rationalize English rule.

The Role of Language

Like Catholicism, the Irish language also helped to constitute the Irish as a distinct ethnic group. Official business was usually conducted in English, and the favoritism of the New English settlers effectively eliminated the Irish-speaking ruling class. As a result, Irish language lost cultural respect while it remained a vernacular, particularly in rural areas. Irish language and names came to symbolize resistance to English rule and loyalty to the Irish independence effort. In the path to independence, Irish language helped unite opposition to English rule.

The Gaelic League was established in 1893 and, though originally apolitical, increased Irish ethnic pride and helped organize opposition to colonial occupation. Thus, Irish language helped construct both Irish identity and the nation-state. The role of Irish language in the political and cultural creation of Ireland is reflected in the 1937 constitution, which prioritizes Irish as the first official language. A national language is associated with a people, whereas an official language is related to a state. The constitution deemphasizes English, recognizing it as a second official language or another language (in the Irish version of the constitution). Referencing Irish as the national and official language links the language with Irish people and the Irish state.

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