History The Irish War Of Independence Questions Medium
During the Irish War of Independence, the main differences between the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and the Irish National Army were primarily ideological and organizational in nature.
1. Ideology: The IRA was a paramilitary organization that sought complete independence from British rule and the establishment of an Irish Republic. They believed in using guerrilla warfare tactics and targeted British forces, police, and infrastructure. On the other hand, the Irish National Army, also known as the Free State Army, was established by the British government as a response to the IRA's activities. The National Army aimed to maintain British control over Ireland and enforce the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921, which established the Irish Free State as a self-governing dominion within the British Empire.
2. Organizational Structure: The IRA operated as a decentralized guerrilla force, with local units known as flying columns. They relied on hit-and-run tactics, ambushes, and intelligence gathering to disrupt British forces. The IRA had a more fluid and flexible structure, with a strong emphasis on secrecy and a reliance on local support. In contrast, the Irish National Army was a more conventional military force, organized along traditional lines with a centralized command structure. They had a regular army structure, complete with officers, ranks, and a chain of command.
3. Support Base: The IRA enjoyed significant support from the Irish population, particularly in rural areas, where they were seen as defenders of Irish independence. They relied on local communities for shelter, supplies, and intelligence. The National Army, on the other hand, had the backing of the British government and was primarily composed of former members of the British Army in Ireland, known as the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC), who had accepted the terms of the Anglo-Irish Treaty. They were seen by some Irish nationalists as collaborators with the British, which limited their support base.
4. Tactics and Targets: The IRA primarily engaged in guerrilla warfare, using ambushes, assassinations, and sabotage to target British forces, police, and infrastructure. They aimed to disrupt British control and force them to negotiate for Irish independence. The National Army, on the other hand, focused on maintaining law and order, protecting British interests, and suppressing the IRA's activities. They engaged in conventional military operations, such as securing key locations and defending against IRA attacks.
In summary, the main differences between the IRA and the Irish National Army during the Irish War of Independence were their ideological goals, organizational structures, support bases, and tactics. The IRA sought complete independence and employed guerrilla tactics, while the National Army aimed to maintain British control and operated as a conventional military force.