Parading the green – Procession as subaltern resistance in Manchester in 1867

This paper discusses the use of procession as a technique of subaltern resistance in a situation where hegemonic power is particularly dominant. After a review of the literature on hegemony, resistance and the origin and nature of processions, it discusses the situation in Manchester in late 1867 following the execution of the three Irishmen who became known as “The Manchester Martyrs”. Using contemporary British and Irish newspapers of varied outlook, it analyses processions of sympathy held on 24 November and 1 December. The organisation, route and composition of the processions and the dress and behaviour of the participants are analysed to demonstrate how procession can express resistance. The case study demonstrates how hegemony and resistance are closely intertwined and that spaces for resistance exist even in the most difficult circumstances, provided those organising resistance show sufficient understanding of the opportunities offered by national and local cultural traditions and local power relationships, and are able to persuade their followers to tailor their act of resistance to that context.