KINGDOM OF IRELAND Meaning and
Definition
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The Kingdom of Ireland refers to the period in Irish history from 1541 to 1800 when Ireland was officially recognized as a kingdom under English and later British rule. This was established through the passage of the Crown of Ireland Act in 1542, which proclaimed King Henry VIII of England as the King of Ireland. The Act declared Ireland to be an independent kingdom, separate from the Kingdom of England and Wales.
During this period, the Kingdom of Ireland was governed by a chief governor or viceroy, appointed by the English monarch. The Irish Parliament, which consisted of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, became the legislative body for the kingdom. However, the Parliament was dominated by Protestant landowners who represented a minority of the population, as the majority of Irish Catholics were excluded from political power.
The Kingdom of Ireland experienced turbulent times throughout its existence, including conflicts between Catholic and Protestant groups, as well as struggles for Irish independence. In the late 18th century, the United Irishmen movement emerged, advocating for republican ideals and seeking to unite Catholics and Protestants. However, these aspirations were not achieved during the period of the Kingdom of Ireland.
The union of Ireland with Great Britain in 1801 marked the end of the Kingdom of Ireland, as it became part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.
