Irish Flags From 1916
This is the flag used in modern Ireland. The green represents Gaelic tradition and Catholics while the orange represents Protestants (followers of William of Orange). White represents peace between the two opposing sides (“Early Irish Republic Flags”).
This flag was created by the Irish Citizen’s Army and is a symbol of both socialism and republicanism whenever it is flown (Zenker 6). This flag and its variations are used still used today to represent these ideologies.
Controversy Over Flags
Flags are often symbols of commemoration and celebration of key historical events. Due to the connotations they held, the flying of Irish flags in Northern Ireland (Bryan 3). Most of Northern Ireland considered itself British and flew the Union Jack. They wanted to remain separate from their southern brethren. The argument is that displaying such symbols is a dividing issue to the citizens of the North (Bryan 9). Flags are sacred objects, ones that many people would die for. Irish flags can be very exclusive and shut out certain people groups, particularly Northern Protestants who felt very little connection to the Southern Catholics. They did not have the same struggles, so the flags did not mean the same things (Bryan 14). The Irish flags are very controversial to many groups because they represent such strong ideas. This is similar to Confederate flags which also spark heavy debate and are hotly contested when they are flown. Both Irish and Confederate flags can make different groups feel excluded and offend them because of this.
Connections to Civil War