The Government of Ireland Act 1920 was a significant legislative measure that aimed to address the longstanding issues of Irish governance and nationalism. The act aimed to create a framework for self-governance, leading to the establishment of two separate jurisdictions: Northern Ireland and Southern Ireland. Northern Ireland was to consist of six counties in the province of Ulster, which had a Protestant majority, while Southern Ireland was more predominantly Catholic. The division was largely influenced by the religious and political tensions that had existed for centuries between these communities.

The act provided for the establishment of a parliament for each region, giving local representation to residents. However, the proposed government for Southern Ireland faced significant challenges and ultimately failed to function effectively, leading to a lack of legitimacy and support. This separation and the failure to create a functional Southern Ireland would later contribute to the Irish War of Independence and the eventual creation of the Irish Free State.

The partition was not merely a political division; it reflected the deep-rooted sectarian divisions and differing national identities within Ireland. The introduction of different governance structures led to immediate and long-lasting consequences for Irish society, exacerbating divisions and fostering animosity between communities. As the dynamics of power shifted, the repercussions of partition would echo through the following decades, culminating in renewed conflict during The Troubles in the late 20th century.