Did you know… during the height of the Troubles in Ireland, Cymru had its own version of the IRA?
The Free Wales Army (FWA) of the 1960s sought to achieve Welsh independence from the United Kingdom with force. However, unlike the IRA (who were rumoured to be supplying the FWA with weapons, though this was never proven), the FWA was not taken too seriously and lasted just six years, between 1963 and 1969.
MAC (Mudiad Amddiffyn Cymru), however, was a much more serious alternative. It was set up in the wake of the flooding of the village of Capel Celyn and targeted water supplies to Liverpool. There were also a number of successful bombings carried out by MAC, such as in 1967 when a pipe carrying water from Lake Vyrnwy to Liverpool was blown up.
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DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – December 2025
Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.

