Select one of the people described below - Junior Cycle History - Question B(iii) - 2005

One of the prominent leaders involved in the struggle for Irish independence during the period of 1916 to 1923 was Éamon de Valera.

Early Life

Éamon de Valera was born in 1882 in New York City but grew up in Ireland. He was educated at the National University of Ireland, where he became involved in nationalist movements.

Involvement in the 1916 Rising

De Valera played a significant role in the 1916 Easter Rising, where he commanded the forces at Boland's Mill. The Rising was a pivotal moment in the fight for Irish independence, and although it ended in defeat, it ignited a spirit of nationalism.

Political Leadership

After the Rising, de Valera was imprisoned, but his popularity surged. He became a prominent leader of the Sinn Féin party and advocated for the establishment of an Irish republic. Following the 1918 general election, Sinn Féin won a landslide victory, and de Valera became the President of the First Dáil Éireann.

War of Independence

De Valera's leadership during the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921) was critical. He negotiated the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which led to the establishment of the Irish Free State but also resulted in a split in the nationalist movement, leading to the Irish Civil War.

Legacy

After the Civil War, de Valera continued to be a significant political figure, eventually serving as Taoiseach and later as President of Ireland. His influence on Irish politics and identity remains profound, highlighting the complexities of the struggle for independence.