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IRA Bombing Campaigns (1970s-1990s)

Introduction

The IRA's Bombing Campaign

The Irish Republican Army (IRA) was a militant Irish nationalist organization that waged a prolonged bombing campaign against British targets in Northern Ireland during the 1970s and 1980s. This campaign was part of a broader conflict known as the Troubles, which involved political violence, sectarianism, and terrorism.

Key Facts

  • Duration: The IRA's bombing campaign lasted from approximately 1969 to 1998.
  • Targets: British Army barracks, police stations, and other military installations were among those targeted by the IRA.
  • Notable attacks: The Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA) bombed several targets in Northern Ireland during this period, including the 1981 Brighton hotel bombing that killed five people and injured many more.

Historical Context

  • Economic instability: Northern Ireland faced significant economic challenges in the late 1960s and early 1970s, which contributed to the emergence of the IRA as a militant force.
  • British policies: British policy towards Northern Ireland was characterized by a lack of effective governance and a heavy-handed approach to maintaining order.

Significant Contributions

  • The Troubles: The IRA's bombing campaign played a significant role in the escalation of violence during the Troubles, which included periods of sectarian violence, paramilitary attacks, and terrorist bombings.
  • Nationalist movements: The IRA's campaigns contributed to the growth of nationalist movements across Ireland, including in Ulster.

Notable Attractions

  • Bloomfield Barracks bombing (1972): A bomb exploded at Bloomfield Barracks in Belfast, killing four people and injuring many more.
  • Guildford pub bombings (1974-1984): The IRA carried out a series of coordinated bombings targeting pubs in Guildford, Surrey, resulting in the deaths of 5 people.

References

List of Sources

  • "The Troubles: Ireland, Britain, and Northern Ireland" by Brendan O'Brien
  • "Irish Politics since 1919" by Gerry Adams
  • "Northern Ireland: A History" by John McGuckian

Additional Resources

  • The Irish Republican Army (IRA) official website
  • The British Government's Department of the Home Secretary website
  • The Northern Ireland Assembly's website

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