Birmingham pub bombings facts for kids
The Birmingham pub bombings were caused by the Provisional Irish Republican Army on 21 November 1974. Two bombs exploded in pubs in Birmingham, West Midlands, England. These attacks sadly killed 21 people.
The first bomb went off in a pub called the Mulberry Bush. Ten people lost their lives there.
Soon after, a second bomb exploded in another pub, the Tavern in the Town. This attack killed eleven people.
A third bomb was also found. It had been placed in the doorway of a Barclays bank. A police officer found it, and thankfully, it did not explode.
The Birmingham bombings were the most deadly terrorist attack in England during the 20th century.
Contents
Understanding the Bombings
What Happened in Birmingham?
On the evening of 21 November 1974, two pubs in Birmingham were attacked. These attacks caused a lot of damage and sadness. The first bomb exploded around 8:18 PM. The second bomb exploded just minutes later, around 8:27 PM.
Who Was Responsible?
The attacks were carried out by the Provisional Irish Republican Army, often called the PIRA or IRA. This group was involved in a conflict known as "The Troubles." They used violence to try and achieve their political goals.
The Impact on People
The bombings had a huge impact on the city of Birmingham and its people. Many families lost loved ones. The events caused a lot of fear and sadness across England. It was a very difficult time for everyone involved.
After the Attacks
Wrongful Convictions
Six men were wrongly found guilty of the bombings. They were known as the "Birmingham Six." They spent many years in prison for a crime they did not commit. Later, their convictions were overturned, and they were set free. This showed how important it is for justice to be fair and correct.
Remembering the Victims
Today, the victims of the Birmingham pub bombings are remembered. There are memorials in Birmingham to honor those who died. These memorials help people remember the past and hope for a peaceful future.
Images for kids
-
New Street in central Birmingham facing the cylindrical Rotunda. Visible on the right are the sign and doorway of The Yard of Ale; the premises formerly occupied by the Tavern in the Town
-
Maureen Roberts and Thomas Chaytor, both of whom were murdered in the Tavern in the Town bombing.
-
The Shire Hall and Crown Court of Lancaster Castle. The Birmingham Six were tried at this location in 1975.
-
Patrick Hill in 2015. He is seen here addressing an audience as to his advocacy in fighting miscarriages of justice.
