High Point

On 9 December 1968, O'Neill made an appearance on television to give his famous 'Ulster Stands at a Crossroads' speech. After over three months of intense activity, the Civil Rights movement had forced the Prime Minister's hand. Under mounting pressure, including from Westminster, O'Neill announced significant concessions, signalling undoubted success for the Civil Rights struggle. 

This high point had unquestionably come about in reaction to NICRA action. The ongoing activities of the PD, whose approach continued to reflect that of their European counterparts, were equally significant in taking the struggle to this stage. O'Neill's attempt at resolving the situation drew criticism not only from elements of the student movement but also within Unionism itself.