What Is Bloody Sunday

Bloody Sunday is the name used to describe the dark day in Derry, Northern Ireland, on 30 January 1972 in which 27 civil rights protesters were shot by members of the British Parachute Regiment during a Northern Ireland Civil Rights march in the Bogside area of the city. Thirteen people, including seven teenagers, died immediately, while another person died 4½ months later due to the injuries he received on the day. Two protesters were injured when they were run over by army vehicles. Lots of witnesses, including bystanders and journalists, testify that all those shot were unarmed. Five of those wounded were shot in the back as they ran for cover.

Two investigations have been held by the British Government. The Widgery Tribunal, held in the immediate aftermath of the event, cleared the soldiers and British authorities of any blame, but was criticised by many as a "whitewash". The Saville Inquiry, began in 1998 to look at the events again (chaired by Lord Saville of Newdigate), is expected to report findings by late 2009..