Battle of George Square

The Battle of George Square was a violent confrontation in Glasgow, Scotland between City of Glasgow Police and striking workers, centred around George Square. The "battle", also known as "Bloody Friday" or "Black Friday", took place on Friday 31 January 1919, shortly after the end of the First World War. During the riot, the Sheriff of Lanarkshire called for military aid, and government troops, supported by six tanks, were moved to key points in the city. The strike leaders were arrested for inciting the riot. Although it is often stated that there were no fatalities, one police constable died several months later from injuries received during the rioting.

Battle of George Square
Part of Red Clydeside and the
Revolutions of 1917–1923
David Kirkwood and Willie Gallacher being detained by City of Glasgow Police at the City Chambers
Date31 January 1919
Location
Glasgow, Scotland
Caused by
  • attempt to stop tram traffic in the Square and subsequent action by the police to clear the way
Resulted in
  • Rioting in parts of Glasgow
  • Army units deployed to Glasgow
Parties

Protesters

  • Trade unions
  • Striking workers
Lead figures
  • Lord Provost Sir James Watson Stewart
  • Sheriff Alastair MacKenzie
Number
20,000–25,000 protesters
(not all involved in violence)
Casualties and losses
Many injured; one police constable died later of injuries received
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