Problems in NI 1920-1925: IRA and Loyalist Activity

Question 1

English and Hart’s view on the IRA

Answer 1

They conclude NI largely escaped the War of Independence’s violence, except for the clash between RIC and Derry IRA men in June 1920.

Question 2

What about D.I. Swanzy’s assassination?

Answer 2

A Lisburn man killed by the IRA in Cork, in retaliation of MacCurtain’s assassination. This prompted Loyalist violence against Catholics: 8,000 displaced, 6,000 expelled from employment, direct attacks on Catholics in major NI towns.

Question 3

Now Loyalist violence was a major issue; how did Craig respond?

Answer 3

The UVF returned as a vigilante defence force, and Craig asked the British government to allow him to create the Ulster Special Constabulary, or the “B-Specials” of around 16,000 men.

Question 4

How successful was this strategy?

Answer 4

Absolute shit; this only granted Loyalists more power to enact horrific crimes. Take the McMahon Family Massacre by the B-Specials. Rees notes London was opposed to this move.

Question 5

What does Rees have to say about the USC strategy?

Answer 5

“Unionist administration relied on sectarian security tactic which took little account of Protestant violence”.

Question 6

What 2 things largely subsided the violence after 1922?

Answer 6

> The Civil War took IRA border forces away

>The Special Powers Act granted the ability to intern