1916: The Easter Rising

The Easter Rising began at noon, April 24, 1916, and lasted for six short but bloody days, resulting in the deaths of innocent civilians, the destruction of many parts of Dublin, and the true beginning of Irish independence. The 1916 Rising was born out of the Conservative and Unionist parties' illegal defiance of the democratically expressed wish of the Irish electorate for Home Rule; and of confusion, mishap, and disorganization, compounded by a split within the Volunteer leadership. Tim Pat Coogan introduces the major players, themes, and outcomes of a drama that would profoundly affect 20th-century Irish history. Not only is this the story of a turning point in Ireland's struggle for freedom, but also a testament to the men and women of courage and conviction who were prepared to give their lives for what they believed was right.