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IRA (Irish Republican Army)

Definition

The IRA (Irish Republican Army) was an armed paramilitary organization formed in 1919 with the goal of ending British rule in Northern Ireland and establishing an independent Irish republic. It has been involved in various acts of terrorism and guerrilla warfare throughout its history.

Analogy

Imagine two siblings who constantly argue about how their room should be decorated. One sibling decides to take matters into their own hands and starts a secret club with the goal of overthrowing their parents' authority over the room.

Related terms

Nationalism: A strong sense of loyalty and devotion to one's own nation, often associated with the desire for self-determination or independence.

Sectarian Conflict: A conflict between different religious or ethnic groups, often characterized by violence and hostility.

Paramilitary: An organization that operates similarly to a military force but is not part of an official armed forces structure.

"IRA (Irish Republican Army)" appears in:

Practice Questions (1)

  • In which country did the IRA (Irish Republican Army) commit acts of violence to regain independence for Northern Ireland?


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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.