Anglo-Irish Relations in the Early Troubles

In 1969 the once peaceful Catholic civil rights movement in Northern Ireland degenerated into widespread violence between the nationalist and unionist communities. The conflict, known as the Troubles, would last for thirty years.

The early years of the Troubles helped to define the nature of the conflict for years to come. This was the period in which unionism divided into moderate and extreme wings; the Provisional IRA emerged amidst the resurgence of violent republicanism; and British military and governmental responsibility for Northern Ireland culminated in direct rule.

Based on extensive research in British, Irish and American archives, Anglo-Irish Relations in the Early Troubles examines the diplomatic relationship between the key players in the formative years of the Northern Ireland conflict. It analyses how the Irish government attempted to influence British policy regarding Northern Ireland and how Britain sought to affect Dublin's response to the crisis. It was from this strained relationship of opposition and co-operation that the long-term shape of the Troubles emerged.

Autorentext

Daniel C. Williamson is Associate Professor of History at the University of Hartford, USA. His previous publications include Churchill, Eisenhower, and Anglo-American Relations, 1953-55 (2006).

Inhalt

Introduction: The Roots of the Troubles

1. The August Crisis: Reactions to the Outbreak of the Troubles
2. A Search for Moderation: Dublin and London Seek Common Ground
3. A Change at Downing Street: Heath Comes to Power and the Troubles Intensify
4. From Bad to Worse: From the Fall of Chichester-Clark to Internment
5. Anglo-Irish Summitry: The Chequers Meetings and their Aftermath
6. The End of Stormont: From Bloody Sunday to Direct Rule
   Conclusions: Anglo-Irish Diplomacy and Northern Ireland
   Bibliography
   Index