Go On Home British Soldiers

The Wolfe Tones' song 'Go On Home British Soldiers' is a powerful and impassioned anthem that reflects the deep-seated resentment and resistance of the Irish people towards British rule. The lyrics are a direct and unfiltered call for British soldiers to leave Ireland, emphasizing the long history of conflict and the desire for Irish independence. The repeated refrain, 'Go on home British Soldiers, Go on home,' serves as a rallying cry, underscoring the sentiment that the British presence in Ireland is unwelcome and oppressive.

The song references the 800 years of struggle against British rule, highlighting the enduring spirit of resistance among the Irish people. This historical context is crucial, as it points to the centuries of colonization, conflict, and efforts to assert Irish sovereignty. The mention of the IRA (Irish Republican Army) and the '14 men in Derry' alludes to specific events and figures in the struggle for Irish independence, particularly the Bloody Sunday massacre in 1972, where British soldiers killed 14 unarmed civil rights protesters in Derry, Northern Ireland. This tragic event is a poignant reminder of the violence and loss that has marked the Irish quest for freedom.

The Wolfe Tones, known for their folk and rebel music, use this song to express a strong sense of Irish identity and pride. Lines like 'We're not British, we're not Saxon, we're not English, We're Irish and proud we are to be' emphasize the distinct cultural and national identity of the Irish people. The rejection of the Union Jack and the call for a free Ireland reflect the desire to reclaim their land and heritage from colonial rule. The song's raw language and emotional intensity capture the frustration and determination of a people who have long fought for their right to self-determination.