Dublin, Ireland – The toll of the Irish Civil War has remained a lingering question for over a century, with estimates varying widely. However, recent research by Prof. Andy Bielenberg of University College Cork and independent historian John Dorney may have finally shed light on this historical event. Their systematic calculation reveals a figure of 1,426, encompassing both combatant and civilian fatalities during the conflict within the Irish Free State from 1922 to 1923.
This new data challenges previous estimates of 1,300 to 1,500 deaths, providing a more concrete understanding of the human cost of the Irish Civil War. The research, part of the Decade of Centenaries program, was funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media. University College Cork’s forthcoming book, focusing on the Civil War fatalities, aims to further illuminate this tumultuous period in Irish history.
The study not only quantifies the total number of deaths but also reveals a nuanced perspective on the conflict. It notes a significant disparity in the casualties between the pro and anti-Treaty sides, with surprising findings on the pro-Treaty side’s higher death toll. Moreover, the research highlights the efforts made by both factions to minimize civilian deaths, shaping the geography of violence during the Civil War.
One striking aspect of the study is its revised chronology of the conflict, challenging the notion that major combat subsided early on. Instead, the data shows peaks of violence during distinct phases of the war, offering a deeper insight into the complexities of the Irish Civil War. The research also contrasts the Irish experience with civil wars in other European countries, underscoring the relatively smaller scale of casualties despite its significance in Ireland’s history.
As the project prepares for its official launch, Minister Catherine Martin commends the research for its contribution to understanding the sacrifices and challenges faced by individuals and families during this turbulent period. The research not only quantifies the human toll of the conflict but also offers a nuanced perspective on the social and political dynamics that shaped Ireland in the aftermath of the War of Independence.