Causes of the Easter Rising: Key Individuals

Question 1

Patrick Pearse?

Answer 1

Charismatic leader who combined Blood Sacrifice, Irish Identity and Gaelism so potently that it was hugely influential in convincing IRB and IV men to rise.

Question 2

Clarke and MacDermott

Answer 2

Clarke was the real “puppetmaster” (O’Keane), pulling the strings behind the scenes.

They took control of both the Executive Council of the IRB which allowed them to commission the Military Council (secret) of the IRB.

They also convinced “new blood” to join in order to give them control of the Irish Volunteers Council.

Question 3

Conolly

Answer 3

Connolly’s threats of a socialist rebellion with the Irish Citizen Army forced the IRB conspirators to co-opt Connolly to the council, where he became Commander in Chief of the rebel force.

Influential on the Proclamation with lines such as “equal rights and equal opportunities” very much aligning with Connolly’s Beliefs.

Question 4

What does English say about Connolly?

Answer 4

“reflected the dead end his Republican Marxism encountered” (Joining the Conspirators).