Description
Squad of Black & Tans under attack from Irish Rebels during the War Of Independence, Tipperary, 1920.
The Black and Tans were British reinforcements during the Irish War of Independence. The vast majority were unemployed former soldiers from Great Britain who fought in World War One. They were brought to Ireland to help the overstretched R.I.C. maintain control and suppress the Irish Republican Army. The nickname "Black and Tans" arose from the colours of the improvised uniforms they initially wore, a mixture of dark green RIC (which appeared black) and khaki British Army.
The Black and Tans gained a reputation for police brutality and became notorious for reprisal attacks on civilians and civilian property, including extrajudicial killings, arson and looting. Their actions further swayed Irish public opinion against British rule, their actions also incited condemnation in Britain as well. The Irish held fast and small brigades of the IRA throughout the country would set up guerilla attacks on "the tans" at every opportunity. This was one such battle. Rare image.
Dimensions: 16” X 10” approx.