The Terror War: The Uncomfortable Reality of the War of Independence

The War of Independence reveals how both sides mirrored terror, shaping an enduring traumatic landscape.

During the Irish War of Independence, the British and the Irish sides often reflected one another. Both the Irish and the British did well in some areas, and were deficient in others. But both sides used terror – murder – burnings – shearing women’s hair – to intimidate the Irish population. British Field Marshal Henry Wilson said of the Black and Tans "It was the business of the government to govern. If these men ought to be murdered, then the government ought to murder them." Michael Collins could equally chillingly say "Careful application of terrorism is also an excellent form of total communication." The actions of the British and Irish frequently mirrored one another – an uncomfortable reality of the War of Independence. This book examines the trauma of the times – both the exceptional and the ordinary – through a diverse range of topics.

Joe Connell is a lawyer, historian, and author, whose previous works include the critically acclaimed 'Where’s Where in Dublin' (Four Courts Press), 'Michael Collins, Dublin 1916-1923' (Wordwell Books), 'Michael Collins’ Dublin 1918-22' (Wordwell Books) and 'The Shadow War' (Eastwood Books). He is a regular guest contributor on Talking History (Newstalk) with Patrick Geoghegan and has written a regular column for History Ireland magazine since 2009.