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Historian James Doherty discusses Civil War anniversary

Historian James Doherty discusses Civil War anniversary
WLR News
WLR News
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Waterford historian, James Doherty, joins Damien to discuss the anniversary of the Civil War and the Siege of Waterford.

This week marks the 100th anniversary of the Civil War where loyalties of families and communities were split.

The war was short and sharp, but very bitter, and can still cause issues today.

James spoke about the brutality of the war and what Waterford looked like this week 100 years ago.

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The War of Independence had ended and the Civil War had begun. The anti-treaty forces refused to leave the Four Courts as the British discussed bombing it.

Outside of Dublin, the feeling was that the war had been lost. Each county picked a side to be on, with Waterford choosing anti-treaty.

The City was peaceful during the war as the fighting happened within the county.

100 years ago today, shots hadn't been fired in Waterford but towns in Kilkenny had been taken over, buildings were occupied, and the bridge was lifted almost every night to get boats through - the IRA knew what was coming and were getting prepared.

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James discussed the casualties and fatalities that happened even after the war ended.

He will be joining Damien next Monday to discuss the topic further.

Waterford City and County Council are hosting a variety of events to commemorate the anniersary. More here.

For more Déise podcats, click here.

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