Guerilla Days in Ireland - New Edition

Guerilla Days in Ireland, published in 1949, recounts the Irish War of Independence and the fight between the British and the Irish Republican Army. Tom Barry describes the formation of the West Cork flying column, its training, and the Kilmichael ambush, one of the most controversial episodes of the War.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 384 pages
\n Publication date: 23 March 2021
\n Publisher: The Mercier Press Ltd
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First published in 1949, Guerilla Days in Ireland is an extraordinary tale of the Irish War of Independence and the clash between two disparate forces, which ultimately resulted in the British withdrawal from twenty-six counties. Just seven weeks before the Truce of July 1921, the British presence in County Cork totaled over 12,500 men. In contrast, the Irish Republican Army, with its flying columns never exceeding 310 riflemen across the entire county, stood as the opposition. These flying columns consisted of small, dedicated Volunteer units, led by stringent commanders and disciplined to the utmost. Always on the move, their primary objective was simply to survive, to strike when conditions were favorable, and to avoid disaster at all costs.

In Guerilla Days in Ireland, Tom Barry vividly describes the establishment of the West Cork flying column, its rigorous training, and the meticulously planned campaign that he executed. Specifically, he delves into the Kilmichael ambush, one of the most contentious episodes of the War of Independence.

The Kilmichael ambush took place on November 28, 1920, in the village of Kilmichael, County Cork. It was a daring operation executed by a small group of Irish Republicans, led by Michael Collins and Tom Barry. The Volunteers, disguised as farmers, ambushed a British patrol, killing eleven officers and wounding several others. The ambush was a significant setback for the British, as it demonstrated the effectiveness of guerrilla warfare and the determination of the Irish Republicans to achieve independence.

However, the Kilmichael ambush also sparked controversy and debate. Some historians argue that the operation was unnecessary and that the Volunteers could have achieved their goals through other means. Others argue that the ambush was a necessary sacrifice to secure the future of Ireland and that the Volunteers had to take risks to achieve their objectives.

Regardless of the differing opinions, the Kilmichael ambush remains a pivotal moment in Irish history. It symbolized the bravery and determination of the Irish Republicans and their willingness to fight for their freedom. It also highlighted the brutality and injustice of the British occupation, which sought to suppress the Irish nationalist movement through violence and repression.

In conclusion, Guerilla Days in Ireland is a captivating and informative book that provides a unique perspective on the Irish War of Independence. Through the story of the Kilmichael ambush, Barry sheds light on the challenges and sacrifices faced by the Irish Republicans as they fought for their country's independence. The book is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Irish people and their unwavering commitment to achieving freedom and equality.

\n Weight: 426g\n
Dimension: 216 x 137 x 35 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781781171714\n
Edition number: New ed\n