Peter stated: > There are also examples that show the contrary. > > Where are the IRA now ?
The IRA were never defeated by the actions of the troops. They were reduced in power as Sinn Fein decided that it wanted to be more a part of the democratic political system and the people of Ireland (N & S) grew tired of the continuing conflict. There are still factions of the old groups in existence now and some recent troubles had me worried that it might flare up again at one point. My whole point was that no conventional army has decisively and comprehensively defeated a terrorist/freedom fighter (call them what you will) group to the point where they are eliminated. The British Government were in covert discussions with the IRA and Sinn Fein before the eventual cease fire and American brokered 'putting the weapons out of use' (note, not handing in the weapons but a self-declaration that they had been put out of use with a few photos to prove it). I ask you, does that suggest that the troops had defeated the IRA? I think not. Roger
