James Durney

This book follows the pattern of a number of recent local studies of the War of Independence and the Civil War in a specific Irish county. The book is very well written and argued. It is particularly informative because, as the author explains, the War of Independence in Kildare was not particularly extensive due to the heavy presence of British garrison forces and the topography of the county which made it unsuited to ambushing. Regardless those involved in both Sinn Féin and the IRA throughout this time are identified, going back to the Easter Rising. The majority of the focus of the book is on the Civil War period where significant conflict did occur within the county and this is analysed in detail. Furthermore interesting anecdotes relating to several assassinations which occurred throughout Ireland at this time are also explored. The book is well referenced throughout and there is a useful reading list for those who want to read further on the subject.… (mehr)