Empire

242. The Troubles: Bloody Sunday & The British Army in Belfast (Ep 2)

54 snips
Mar 31, 2025
Joining the discussion is Patrick Radden Keefe, the acclaimed author of 'Say Nothing,' known for his insights into the Troubles in Northern Ireland. He delves into the British Army’s internment policy and its impact on IRA recruitment. The conversation also highlights the transformation of peaceful protestors like the Price sisters into IRA fighters. Furthermore, Keefe examines the chilling events of Bloody Sunday and the colonial roots of British counter-insurgency tactics, adding depth to this turbulent history.
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ANECDOTE

IRA Bombing Campaign

  • The Provisional IRA focused on bombing businesses seen as symbols of British power.
  • Bombings became frequent, causing terror and casualties due to flawed warning systems.
INSIGHT

IRA Factions Clash

  • The Provisional IRA (Provos) and Official IRA (Stickies) clashed violently.
  • Multiple armed factions, including loyalist paramilitaries and British forces, added to the chaos.
ANECDOTE

Early IRA Weaponry

  • Early in The Troubles, the Provos were outgunned, using old, sometimes rusty weapons.
  • Doherty Price's initial IRA task involved cleaning rusty bullets, highlighting their limited resources.
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