The Battle of the Bogside Violence increased from 1969 onwards.
In August of that year, major violence was sparked off by the Protestant Apprentice Boys march in Derry. This march led to a clash with the Catholics/nationalists of the Bogside in Derry.
The nationalists barricaded their area and resisted efforts by unionists and the RUC to enter the area, in what became known as the Battle of the Bogside. ● Petrol bombs and stones were thrown at the RUC to keep them out of the Bogside. The rioting spread to other parts of Northern Ireland.
British troops
By now, nationalists had lost all respect for the RUC. The British Government sent in troops to protect the people of the Bogside. Troops were also sent into nationalist areas of Belfast after rioting broke out there. The people welcomed soldiers with cups of tea.
New political parties – the SDLP and DUP
The changing political scene led to the founding of new political parties in Northern Ireland.
The SDLP
On the nationalist side, the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) was founded in 1970. It brought together different nationalist groups and became the largest nationalist party. Its first leader was Gerry Fitt, and he was succeeded by John Hume. Hume later became the most important person in promoting the peace process.
The DUP John Hume Ian Paisley
On the unionist side, the Rev. Ian Paisley founded the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) in 1971. Paisley opposed the Unionist Party of Northern Ireland and demanded strong action be taken against the IRA. He was a powerful and charismatic speaker.
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British troops receiving Christmas presents from local residents, 1969