The Irish Embassy in London and the National Archives of Ireland in partnership with the British Academy and the Royal Irish Academy, present a special exhibition The Treaty, 1921: Records from the Archives at the British Academy, London. 

The Treaty negotiations began in London on 11 October 1921 and concluded in the early morning of 6 December 1921 with the signature, by British and Irish negotiators, of ‘Articles of Agreement’ – better known as the Anglo-Irish Treaty (or the Treaty). This led directly to the establishment of the Irish Free State on 6 December 1922, governing 26 of Ireland’s 32 counties. It was a milestone in the histories of Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK), and the British Empire and Commonwealth.

Bringing together key records, this exhibition will provide insights into this important period in Anglo-Irish relations. The exhibition is presented by the National Archives of Ireland, in partnership with the Royal Irish Academy, the Embassy of Ireland in London and the British Academy, with additional records from the collections of the National Library of Ireland, the Military Archives and University College Dublin. The exhibition includes copies of primary sources including records, photographs, documentation and correspondence held by institutions in these islands to help give an insight into the recollections of the delegates around the negotiating table in London. 

Free, booking required

This exhibition is taking place at the British Academy, London. You will be asked to book a time slot when registering for the exhibition. 

This exhibition is staged in line with the government’s COVID-19 guidelines and our venue’s COVID-19 guidelines. Measures are subject to change in accordance with government guidance; attendees will be notified of any changes prior to their visit. If you have any questions about this exhibition please email e.zerling@thebritishacademy.ac.uk.