The Troubles - A Secret History

Fifty years after troops were sent on to the streets of Northern Ireland, a leading team of investigative journalists uncover secrets about the decades-long conflict that claimed more than 3,700 lives.

Reporter Darragh MacIntyre opens the series, discovering an array of new evidence, including previously classified documents, unseen film and new testimony from key new witnesses to the origins of the Troubles. It throws new light on the formation of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, as well as the parts played by radicals who became elder statesmen, like Ian Paisley and Martin McGuinness.

In programme one of the seven-part series, the Spotlight team traces how in the 1960s suspicion led to unrest between unionists and nationalists, undermining Northern Ireland’s own government. The arrival of the British Army in August 1969 brought a respite, and the soldiers were enthusiastically greeted as protectors by many nationalists.

This programme demonstrates how that relationship was soured by fatal errors and calculated acts of violence. New information about McGuinness’ role at that time is brought to light, and the episode concludes with the destruction of the Northern Ireland government - a moment when IRA members believed they were about to force the British Army out of Northern Ireland.

Pictured: BBC Spotlight reporters Jennifer O'Leary Darragh MacIntyre and Mandy McAuley

Publicity contact: MD