Introduction

Abstract

In conditions of civil disorder and conflict, the world contracts and the local situation becomes the central political concern of many more people. When a small city, village or neighbourhood becomes the site of regular killings, riots, bombings and the daily disruption of normal life, the local environment becomes ever more important as a focus for political activity. This book traces the development of violent conflict in one local environment, the city of Derry. It covers the years 1968 to 1972, the first years of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, a time when Derry was often at the centre of the conflict.