POLITICAL ECONOMY OF SECESSION: LESSONS FROM THE EARLY YEARS OF THE IRISH FREE STATE

Abstract We apply insights from the political economy of secession to analyse early years Irish Free State (IFS). The IFS was fortuitous in a debt settlement that enabled it begin its existence free while also receiving financial assistance quell civil unrest. Yet unable continue provide welfare spending inherited old regime thereby exacerbating inequality. maintained sterling peg, which led milder experience depression era. Ultimately, however, benefits independence were not forthcoming IFS.