Easter Dawn

Book excerpt: In the long and epic fight for Irish independence, few events match the drama and tragedy of the Easter Rising of 1916. Inspired by the legends of old and sharing the dream of an independent Ireland, an extraordinary alliance of men and women sought to overthrow British rule in Ireland. 'Easter Dawn' charts the story of the Rising from the landing of the guns at Howth in 1914, to the arrests and executions that followed it. The fate of those involved - rebel and loyalist alike - is told through eyewitness accounts and media reports. Intricately researched and emotively written, the narrative is woven around contemporary photographs, many rare and unseen, providing a fresh look at the people and places involved. As the centenary of 1916 approaches, this book is ideally suited for anyone seeking an accessible, impartial and dramatic view of that immense week.