Summary of Planning the Easter Rising

  • Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB):

    • Infiltrated organizations: GAA, Sinn Féin, Irish Volunteer Force (IVF).
    • Planned a rising after the outbreak of WWI, believing it was a critical opportunity, as Home Rule was on hold.

  • Formation of Military Council:

    • Included members: Thomas Clarke, Seán Mac Diarmada, Pádraig Pearse, Joseph Plunkett, Éamonn Ceannt, Thomas McDonagh.
    • The council operated in secrecy to avoid British infiltration.

  • Funding and Weapons:

    • Funds were largely sourced from Irish Americans.
    • Joseph Plunkett and Roger Casement obtained arms from Germany.

  • Easter Rising Decision:

    • Planned to start on Easter Sunday, 23 April 1916, linked to beliefs of blood sacrifice for Ireland's future.

  • Collaboration with James Connolly:

    • Socialist leader of the Irish Citizen Army was persuaded to unite for the rising.

  • Involvement of Irish Volunteers:

    • Eoin MacNeill, opposed to rebellion, was initially unaware of the plans.
    • Forged document (Castle Document) convinced MacNeill to support the rising.

  • Nationwide Rebellion Plans:

    • Arms were to be distributed to Irish Volunteer groups from Co. Kerry.
    • Plans unraveled as the Aud was captured, losing 20,000 rifles, and Casement was arrested.

  • Cancellation of Participation:

    • MacNeill's cancellation notice in the Sunday Independent led to the withdrawal of Irish Volunteers.

  • Consequences:

    • Despite setbacks, Military Council decided to proceed with the uprising.

  • Key Terms:

    • Blood Sacrifice: The rebels' willingness to die for the future of Ireland.
    • Castle Document: A forgery used to manipulate Irish Volunteer support for the rising.