The IRA had split into two factions in 1969 at the outset of the Troubles. The Officials wanted to contest elections and ally with left-wing radicals. The Provisionals—known familiarly as the Provos—rejected electoral politics and claimed the mantle of the Easter 1916 rebels who had proclaimed a provisional government. By 1972, the Provos were ascendant. Magee chose the Provos.
