Shelling of the Four Courts Begins Irish Civil War
June 28th, 1922
June 28th, 1922

How Long Ago?
102 years, 8 months, 15 days ago
Location
Dublin, Ireland
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Irish Civil War
People
- Michael Collins
- Éamon de Valera
- Richard Mulcahy
- Liam Lynch
Links & References
Tags
Shelling of the Four Courts Begins Irish Civil War
Free State forces commenced an assault on the Four Courts in Dublin, marking the start of the Irish Civil War. This military action aimed to eliminate anti-Treaty forces that had occupied the building. The shelling resulted in significant destruction and a violent conflict that lasted for several months.
Marked the beginning of the Irish Civil War
Involved intense fighting between pro and anti-Treaty forces
Resulted in significant destruction in Dublin
Led to a protracted conflict lasting until 1923
What Happened?
The Irish Civil War initiated with the bombardment of the Four Courts, a central government building located in Dublin. This moment signaled the deepening rift between pro-Treaty forces, supporting the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, and anti-Treaty factions opposing the agreement. Led by General Michael Collins and his Free State army, the attack began after a lengthy period of escalating tensions between the two sides over the future governance of Ireland following its independence from British rule. The Four Courts had become a stronghold for anti-Treaty IRA members, who fortified their position in anticipation of a confrontation.
As artillery fire erupted from Free State positions, buildings nearby suffered collateral damage, and intense street fighting ensued throughout the city. This assault marked a turning point, igniting a brutal conflict characterized by ambushes, guerrilla warfare, and political maneuvers. Over the following months, the violence expanded beyond Dublin, engulfing the entire country as opposing factions clashed over the direction of the new Irish state.
The fallout from this initial clash was profound, leading to extensive casualties on both sides and a lasting legacy of division in Irish society. Fighting continued until 1923, ultimately costing thousands of lives and shaping the future landscape of Ireland. The violence not only influenced political structures in Ireland but also contributed to the emergence of new identities within various Irish communities, as the war's divide endured long after peace was declared.
Why Does it Matter?
This conflict is interesting because it laid the foundation for the modern Irish state and influenced the political landscape for generations. The Civil War resulted in the establishment of distinct identities among Irish people, several of whom aligned with either pro or anti-Treaty sentiments. The legacy of division endured, affecting Irish politics for decades.
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