Responding to the challenge of political violence : the Catholic hierarchy in Northern Ireland (1921-1972) and the Basque Country (1936-1975)

Abstract

This thesis will examine the response of the Catholic hierarchy to political violence in Northern Ireland (1921-1972) and the Basque Country (1936- 1975). These were critical years in the political development of both societies that saw the foundation and consolidation of two regimes without historical precedent - the Unionist Government in Northern Ireland and the Franco dictatorship in the Basque Country. Although very different in nature, both regimes emerged against a backdrop of violent conflict centred on contrasting national identities. The new political power consolidated its position through the imposition of structures that impeded the participation of the minority community in the running of the State. The growing alienation of the minority communities, who perceived the machinery of the State to be a threat to both their identity and security, would culminate in the outbreak of devastating cycles of guerrilla warfare and State violence that would dominate the latter years of both regimes.