Irish Republican Prisoners Launch Hunger Strikes

October 14th, 1923

October 14th, 1923

Irish Republican Prisoners Launch Hunger Strikes
How Long Ago?

101 years, 5 months, 1 day ago

Location

Ireland

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

War/Conflict

Irish Civil War

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Irish Republican Prisoners Launch Hunger Strikes

Thousands of Irish republican prisoners initiated hunger strikes to protest their internment without trial in 1923. This large-scale protest emerged after the Irish Civil War, highlighting the unresolved grievances among republicans against the new Free State government. The prisoners demanded recognition of their rights and an end to their detention without due process, drawing significant attention both nationally and internationally.

Interned without trial after the Irish Civil War

Thousands of prisoners joined the hunger strike

Strikes brought attention to political repression

Health consequences heightened public concern

What Happened?

Following the Irish Civil War, which ended in 1923, many republicans found themselves imprisoned without trial under the newly established Irish Free State government. The climate in Ireland post-conflict was rife with political tension and division. Many of these prisoners believed that their internment was unjustified and politically motivated, leading to widespread discontent. In October 1923, thousands commenced an organized hunger strike to challenge their conditions and assert their rights as political prisoners. Their actions aimed to bring awareness to their plight and ignite public sympathy for their cause.

The hunger strikes captured the attention of the Irish public and international media, serving as a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for civil rights in Ireland. Numerous prisoners were from the ranks of the IRA (Irish Republican Army), and their actions were intended not only as a protest against internment but also as a statement against the political repression they faced. Many prisoners, weakened by their refusal to eat, faced dire health consequences, which heightened concern for their well-being and further provoked public outrage against the government's policies.

Ultimately, the hunger strikes resulted in increased pressure on the Free State government, which eventually led to discussions of releasing some prisoners. This period highlighted the tensions and divisions lasting beyond the Civil War, as well as the broader struggles for identity, rights, and sovereignty within the island of Ireland.

Why Does it Matter?

The hunger strikes are significant as they showcased the resilience of Irish republicans in their fight against perceived oppression. This moment contributed to the evolving narrative of civil rights in Ireland and amplified public awareness of issues surrounding political prisoners. The strikes also set a precedent for future protests in Ireland, emphasizing the effectiveness of non-violent resistance against government policies.

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