The Irish Free State

The Irish Free State, established in 1922, was a self-governing entity created after the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which ended the Irish War of Independence. It covered most of Ireland, excluding Northern Ireland, and was a significant step towards full Irish independence from British rule. The Free State had its own government and parliament, but it remained a dominion within the British Commonwealth. It aimed to establish a distinctive Irish identity and governance. In 1937, it became the independent Republic of Ireland, officially renaming itself and further solidifying its sovereignty.