Background:
During the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921), the IRA was engaged in a guerilla campaign against British rule in Ireland. The RIC, with its members known as "peelers," was the main police force in Ireland, responsible for maintaining law and order.
The escalation of violence that led to the Black and Tan Revolt was partly a result of the British government's response to the IRA's activities. In early 1920, the British administration in Ireland took several measures, such as the introduction of the Restoration of Order in Ireland Act (ROIA) and the establishment of the Auxiliary Division of the RIC.
The ROIA granted extensive powers to the authorities, including the use of military force, preventive detention, and heavy punishments. The Auxiliary Division, also known as the "Auxiliaries," was formed mainly from ex-servicemen who had fought in World War I. Both the RIConstabulary and the Auxiliary Division were heavily armed, and they were authorized to use force against the IRA.
Black and Tan:
The term "Black and Tan" refers to the two colors of the uniforms worn by the recruits in the newly established RIC Auxiliary Division: black for the RIC uniform, and beige or tan for the military khaki.
The Black and Tans quickly gained notoriety for their heavy-handed tactics, brutal treatment of civilians, and indiscriminate reprisal operations. Accusations of atrocities, reprisal attacks, kidnappings, torture, and extrajudicial killings committed by the RIC and Auxiliaries led to widespread resentment and anger among the Irish population, fueling further support for the IRA.
During this period, the IRA's campaign intensified, targeting RIC barracks and personnel and engaging in asymmetric warfare against the British forces. The IRA also adopted a policy of guerrilla tactics and ambushes, leading to a sharp escalation in violence on both sides.
Escalation of Violence:
The Black and Tan Revolt witnessed an intensification of armed clashes between the IRA and the RIC/Auxiliaries. Reprisal attacks and counter-reprisals increased in frequency and brutality, leading to a vicious cycle of violence across Ireland.
The most notorious incident of the period is known as the "Croke Park Massacre," which occurred in November 1920 during a Gaelic football match in Dublin's Croke Park Stadium. British forces opened fire on the crowd attending the game, resulting in the death of civilians, including children, and further激怒的Irish public.
End of the Revolt:
The Black and Tan Revolt did not achieve any clear strategic objectives for either the IRA or the British government. The violence and chaos led both parties to realize the need for a negotiated settlement.
The revolt marked a turning point in the Irish War of Independence, contributing to international disapproval of British policies in Ireland. It raised global awareness of the situation in Ireland and added pressure for a resolution to the conflict.
The Black and Tan Revolt ultimately ended in June 1921 with the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which led to the establishment of the Irish Free State within the British Commonwealth. However, the divisions and violence during this period left lasting scars on Irish society, with some of its consequences still felt in contemporary times.