The stories of these conflicts, with their scores of killings, torture, reprisals and long- lasting bitterness are told concisely in this book.&newpara;Easter 1916 the rebellion which took place in Ireland 90 years ago was arguably the most momentous event in this country's history.&newpara;The War of Independence the guerrilla war, characterised by marvellous courage and miserable cruelty.&newpara;The Civil War few episodes in Irish history are as poignant, bloody and unnecessary.&newpara;This book traces the causes, events and consequences of these events. It will help a peaceful generation for which the bloody birth of modern Ireland is ancient history, to gain a better understanding of the essence of their nation.

Sean McMahon was born in Derry in 1931. Over the past forty years he has written and edited dozens of books, including the bestselling 'A Short History of Ireland'.