RTÉ History Show - Irish War of Independence - The Gathering Storm

Brian Hanley, Heather Laird, Daithí Ó Corráin and John Gibney join Myles Dungan to discuss how the war began, and how Dáil Eireann built and financed a new Irish republic. Image shows a scene from the First Dáil in January 1919. (Credit: Illustrated London News) Themes/Issues discussed: Soloheadbeg & the beginning of attacks on Police Dáil courts Geography of Revolution - different county experiences Labour, strikes & Revolution - ‘Growing confidence of labour’ Limerick Soviet - labour unrest and relations with Sinn Féin Propaganda war - making the case for Irish independence on international stage (cultivation of foreign journalists; Irish Bulletin; An t-Oglach) Publicising the Dáil Courts Dáil Diplomats (Dr. John Gibney discusses) De Valera in America Art O’Briain & Sinn Fein in London Funding the republic - the Dail loan The assassination of Alan Bell Funding the Dáil courts The Wind that shakes the barley - how accurate was the film? Impact of War of Independence on RIC Michael Collins & the Intelligence war (establishing the Squad) Press Coverage and the Escalation of Violence; Suppression of the press Assassination attempt on Lord French The dangers of working for the Dáil Courts - Kevin O’Shiel Preview of 1920 - escalation of conflict For all the stories from 100 years ago, visit Twitter: Facebook: Instagram: Learn about the Easter Rising: Learn about the Gallipoli campaign during WW1: