A Secret History of the IRA (ISBN 014101041X)

Blessed are the peacemakers. . .:
Ed Moloney, amazingly, tapped sources deep within the IRA and Sinn Fein command structures to uncover the real story - at least from a Republican point of view - of the birth of the Good Friday Agreement. If even half of what Moloney says in the book is true, Gerry Adams might be one of the most skilled, clever politicians of our time. The book certainly suggests that Mr. Adams and elements in the IRA have not been fairly credited for their roles in negotiating a "peace" in Northern Ireland that seems to be holding eight years on. Only a minimal understanding of "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland is necessary as Moloney gives lots of good background information about the history of the IRA, the rise of the Provisional IRA and its transition from terror organization to a something of a "legitimate" political organization. Moloney does not glorify the IRA or justify its actions, but gives it due credit (at least certain of its members) for kick-starting a peace process which has eased centuries of sectarian strife. How the IRA moved from an uncompromising demand for a unified (socialist republic) Ireland, to be won by armed struggle, to acceptance of a divided island (albeit one more responsive in the North to the needs of its Catholic/Republican/Nationalist citizenry) is what this book is really about. That this major shift in IRA policy came about due to the actions of one of the group's (former) hardliners is utterly fascinating. Anyone that is interested in Irish politics or history - or even politics generally - should read this book!

Thank god this group was put under control:
The IRA is a controversial group that has been decried as terrorists, freedom fighters and a modern day mafia. All of these descriptions are true and Moloney makes it a fascinating tale in his book. It is well written and helps to explain how the IRA developed. For those interested in law enforcement, terrorism or politics this book offers something for everyone. Very enjoyable!