black and tan

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Definition

Noun: 1. A historical term for a British paramilitary recruit: Specifically refers to an English recruit serving in the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) during the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921). The name derives from the distinctive color of their temporary uniforms, which mixed dark police green (appearing black) with khaki (appearing tan).

Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The arrival of the Black and Tans intensified the conflict in Ireland.
    • Historical accounts often describe the Black and Tan as a poorly disciplined force.
    • The term "Black and Tan" is still remembered in Ireland today.
Advanced Usage
  • Historical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in a historical context to discuss the Irish War of Independence. It carries strong negative connotations due to the force's reputation for harsh reprisals.
  • As a Modifier: It can be used adjectivally to describe things related to this force.
    • The period is known for Black and Tan atrocities.
    • He researched Black and Tan operations.
Variants and Related Words
  • Auxiliary Division (Auxiliaries): Often mentioned alongside the Black and Tans, this was a separate but related paramilitary unit of former British army officers, also part of the RIC.
  • Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC): The police force in which the Black and Tans served.
Synonyms
  • RIC recruit (specifically for the 1919-1921 period)
  • British paramilitary (in this specific historical context)
Notes on Meaning
  • Important Distinction: This historical term should not be confused with the common color combination "black and tan" (e.g., describing a dog's coat or a type of beer). When capitalized ("Black and Tan"), it almost always refers to the historical paramilitary force.
Noun
  1. an English recruit (who wore a uniform that was black and tan) serving in the Irish constabulary to suppress the Sinn Fein rebellion of 1919 to 1921

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