Derry Citizens Defence Association

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The Derry Citizens Defence Association (DCDA), was an organisation set up in July 1969 in response to a perceived threat to the nationalist community of Derry in connection with the annual parade of the Apprentice Boys of Derry on 12 August. This followed the incursion of Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) members in January and April 1969, which resulted in destruction and violence against the community. It played a prominent role in co-ordinating the area's defenders in the Battle of the Bogside, and was the effective government of Free Derry from August to October 1969. It's leaders included Seán Keenan, Paddy Doherty and Johnnie White. Keenan and White were well-known republicans.