1968-69: Outbreak of Violence
Following a banned NICRA march in Derry/Londonderry on 5 October 1968 television footage of protesters being attacked by the RUC drew attention from around the world. In November Stormont introduced a reform package but loyalist attacks on a student march at Burntollet in January 1969 further polarised opinion. Police were able to contain sectarian riots during the Twelfth celebrations but in August an Apprentice Boys of Derry march in Londonderry sparked a conflict between the RUC and nationalist youths. British soldiers were deployed on the streets of Derry to help restore order on 14 August and in Belfast the following day.