Over centuries of conflict, Ireland has produced many heroes. One who had more lasting effect than many, was Patrick Pearse, who's actions were instrumental in attaining the independence of his nation. From a very young age Patrick Pearse had a passionate interest in the Irish language and Gaelic culture, and sought to revive it through the Gaelic League. In 1908 he gave up his very well-paid job as editor of the Gaelic League newspaper and used …showed first 75 words of 657 total…

…showed last 75 words of 657 total…heroic death in a noble cause may well have appealed to him. However, there was also a reasonable logic to their actions. If a number of rebels were killed or executed by the British they would be seen as martyrs and the effect could be to swing Irish public opinion more strongly against British rule and in favour of republic. In the event they were proved right, and their sacrifice led directly to Irish independence.