Tans, Terror & Troubles: Kerry's Real Fighting Story 1913– 23

by Ryle T Dwyer

Since Kerry's Fighting Story was published by the Kerryman in 1947, no attempt has been made to cover the period of the Irish War of Independence and the Civil War in Kerry, which were fought with particular ferocity. This book seeks to fill a gap in providing a broad look at events in Kerry during the decade from the founding of the Irish Volunteers in November 1913 to the ending of the Civil War in April 1923.

Genres: History, Ireland, Irish Literature

400 pages, Hardcover

First published December 15, 2001

Reviews

[Eoghan O'Brien · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eoin O'Duffy (blueshirt) said "Kerry's entire record in the Black and Tan struggle consisted in shooting an unfortunate soldier the day of the Truce".

This, of course, is a load of bollocks.

Remarkable account in here of Tralee being shut down by the Tans for 9 days, forcing the locals to the brink of starvation. Interestingly, both of the local papers had been out of operation, so most of the coverage from this comes from international media (making headlines in US, Canada and France at the time) while barely if at all covered in Irish contemporary or future accounts.

Also has a clear and detailed recollection of the Headford Ambush in Glenflesk.

Only two chapters covering the civil war but they are easily the most hard hitting.