Tommy McKearney

Tommy McKearney

Tommy McKearney is an Irish republican and former member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA). He is known for his involvement in the Irish republican movement and his participation in the 1980 Irish hunger strike.

Early Life

Tommy McKearney was born in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. He grew up in a family with strong republican beliefs, which influenced his political views from a young age. McKearney's family was deeply affected by the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland that began in the late 1960s.

Involvement in the IRA

McKearney joined the Provisional Irish Republican Army in the early 1970s. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a prominent member of the organization. The IRA was involved in an armed campaign against British rule in Northern Ireland, seeking to establish a united Ireland.

1980 Hunger Strike

In 1980, McKearney participated in the first Irish hunger strike at the Maze Prison (also known as Long Kesh). The hunger strike was a protest against the British government's refusal to grant political status to republican prisoners. McKearney and other prisoners demanded the right to wear their own clothes, free association, and other privileges. The hunger strike ended after 53 days without achieving its goals, but it set the stage for the more famous 1981 Irish hunger strike.

Post-IRA Activities

After his release from prison, McKearney became involved in various political and community activities. He has been a vocal critic of the Good Friday Agreement, arguing that it did not address the root causes of the conflict in Northern Ireland. McKearney has also written extensively on issues related to Irish republicanism and the legacy of the Troubles.

Publications

Tommy McKearney is the author of several books and articles on Irish republicanism and the history of the Troubles. His works provide a critical perspective on the peace process and the ongoing challenges facing Northern Ireland.

See Also

• Provisional Irish Republican Army
• 1980 Irish hunger strike
• 1981 Irish hunger strike
• Maze Prison
• Good Friday Agreement
• Troubles (Northern Ireland)