Famous Irish Leaders

Michael Collins was an Irish revolutionary, soldier, and politician who played a pivotal role in the early-20th century struggle for Irish independence. He served as Director of Intelligence of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) during the War of Independence and later became Chairman of the Provisional Government of the Irish Free State. Collins was a key figure in negotiating the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which established the Irish Free State. He was known for his strategic leadership in guerrilla warfare and tragically met his death in an ambush during the Irish Civil War.

Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, was a distinguished military officer and statesman in Britain during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He served as British prime minister twice and was renowned for his leadership in various wars, including the Anglo-Mysore Wars and the Napoleonic Wars. Wellington achieved significant victories such as the Battle of Vitoria and the Battle of Waterloo. Known for his defensive tactics, he is considered one of the greatest commanders in modern history, with his strategies still studied in military academies worldwide.

Mary Robinson is an Irish politician who made history as the country's first female president, serving from 1990 to 1997. Prior to her presidency, she was a senator and a Dublin Corporation councillor. Known for her liberalizing efforts, Robinson played a key role in decriminalizing homosexuality, legalizing contraception and divorce, and advocating for civil rights in Ireland. She later served as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and continued her activism through various initiatives and organizations, focusing on climate justice and civil rights globally.

Constance Markievicz was an Irish politician, revolutionary, nationalist, suffragist, and socialist. She was the first woman elected to the Westminster Parliament and served as the Minister for Labour in the First Dáil. A founding member of various organizations, she played a significant role in the Easter Rising of 1916. Markievicz was a Member of Parliament for Dublin St Patrick's and supported the anti-Treaty side in the Irish Civil War. She was a key figure in Irish politics until her death in 1927.

Charles Stewart Parnell was an influential Irish nationalist politician and leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party. He played a key role in the Home Rule debates of 1885-1886, holding the balance of power in the UK House of Commons. Parnell was a skilled land reform agitator and founder of the Irish National Land League. Imprisoned briefly in 1882, he later reformed the Home Rule League into the Irish Parliamentary Party, becoming Britain's first disciplined democratic party leader. Despite a scandal ending his career, he remains a celebrated figure in Irish political history.

Wolfe Tone was a leading advocate for Irish independence and a key figure in Irish republicanism. He co-founded the Society of United Irishmen in 1791 to unite Protestants and Catholics in pursuit of freedom from British rule. Tone sought foreign assistance and led a rebellion against British control in 1798. Captured during a French-backed invasion, he was sentenced to death but died from a self-inflicted wound. Tone's name remains central to Irish Republicanism, with differing factions commemorating his legacy annually.

Michael D. Higgins is an Irish politician, poet, broadcaster, and sociologist who has been serving as the ninth president of Ireland since 2011. He entered national politics through the Labour Party, serving as a senator and later as a Teachta Dála representing the Galway West constituency. Higgins has held various positions such as minister for arts, culture, and the Gaeltacht, mayor of Galway, and president of the Labour Party. During his time as president, he has focused on issues of justice, social equality, anti-sectarianism, and reconciliation.

Anne Marie Waters is a far-right politician and activist in the United Kingdom. She founded and led the anti-Islam party For Britain until its dissolution in 2022. Waters is the director of Sharia Watch UK and launched Pegida UK in 2016. She unsuccessfully attempted to become a Labour Party parliamentary candidate before joining UKIP and standing in its 2017 leadership election. After leaving UKIP to form For Britain in 2017, Waters rejoined UKIP in 2023 following For Britain's dissolution.

Arthur Griffith was an Irish writer, newspaper editor, and politician who founded the political party Sinn Féin. He advocated for Irish independence by promoting the withdrawal of Irish members from the UK Parliament and establishing self-governing institutions in Ireland. Griffith played a key role in the Sinn Féin party's growth, becoming its president in 1911. He served as a Member of Parliament and held ministerial positions in the Dáil, leading the Irish delegation in negotiating the Anglo-Irish Treaty, which established the Irish Free State.

Dana Rosemary Scallon is an Irish singer, songwriter, and politician. She gained widespread recognition by winning the 1970 Eurovision Song Contest with "All Kinds of Everything," which propelled her music career. Transitioning into politics, she ran for the Irish presidency in 1997 and later became a Member of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2004. Despite her unsuccessful bid in the 2011 presidential election, Scallon remains a prominent figure in both the music industry and Irish political landscape.

Richard Brinsley Sheridan was a prolific Anglo-Irish playwright, writer, and Whig politician known for his contributions to British literature and politics. As the owner of Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, he produced several successful plays, including The Rivals, The Duenna, The School for Scandal, and A Trip to Scarborough. Sheridan also held the position of Treasurer of the Navy and served as a Member of Parliament for various constituencies. His works continue to be celebrated and performed worldwide as essential pieces of the Western literary tradition.

Douglas Hyde was an Irish academic, linguist, scholar of the Irish language, politician, and diplomat. He was a leading figure in the Gaelic revival and served as the first President of Ireland from June 1938 to June 1945. Hyde was also the first President of the Gaelic League, a prominent cultural organization in Ireland. Throughout his professional life, he made significant contributions to the promotion and preservation of the Irish language and culture, leaving a lasting impact on Irish society.

Erskine Hamilton Childers was an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who served as the fourth president of Ireland from June 1973 to November 1974, the only Irish president to have died in office. He also held various ministerial positions including Tánaiste and Minister for Health, Minister for Transport and Power, Minister for Posts and Telegraphs, Minister for Lands, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Local Government and Public Health. He served as a Teachta Dála (TD) for a considerable period from 1938 to 1973.

Robert Erskine Childers was an English-born Irish nationalist who gained recognition as a writer, notably for his accounts of the Second Boer War and the influential novel "The Riddle of the Sands." Originally a firm believer in the British Empire, his experiences in the Boer War led to disillusionment with British imperialism. He transitioned from advocating for Irish home rule to supporting Irish republicanism and played a key role in the negotiations that led to the Anglo-Irish Treaty, ultimately being executed by the Irish Free State during the Civil War.

Terence MacSwiney was an Irish playwright, author, and politician who made significant contributions during the Irish War of Independence in 1920. Elected as Sinn Féin Lord Mayor of Cork, he bravely stood up against British rule, leading to his arrest on charges of sedition. Imprisoned in Brixton Prison, his decision to go on a hunger strike for 74 days ultimately led to his tragic death, garnering international attention and highlighting the Irish Republican campaign's struggle for freedom.

Thomas Francis Meagher was an Irish nationalist who led the Young Irelanders in the Rebellion of 1848. He was sentenced to transportation for life to Van Diemen's Land but escaped to the United States in 1852. In New York, he studied law, worked as a journalist, and lectured on the Irish cause. During the American Civil War, he joined the U.S. Army and rose to the rank of brigadier general, notably leading the Irish Brigade. After the war, he served as Montana's Territorial Secretary of State and acting territorial governor.

Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh was a prominent Irish politician, judge, and barrister. He served as the fifth president of Ireland from 1974 to 1976, during which time he played a crucial role in the country's governance. Prior to his presidency, he held various esteemed positions including Judge of the European Court of Justice, Chief Justice of Ireland, Judge of the Supreme Court, and Attorney General of Ireland. Throughout his career, Ó Dálaigh made significant contributions to the legal and political landscape of Ireland.

Sir William Johnson, 1st Baronet, was a British Army officer and colonial administrator known for his military and governance work in British colonial America. He managed an estate in the Mohawk territory, learning the Mohawk language and customs, and was appointed British agent to the Iroquois. Johnson led Iroquois and colonial militia forces in battles against the French, earning a baronetcy for his role in the Battle of Lake George and capturing Fort Niagara. He combined personal business with official diplomacy, acquiring vast amounts of Native land and amassing wealth.

Richard Wellesley, 1st Marquess Wellesley, was an accomplished Anglo-Irish politician and colonial administrator. He served as the Governor-General of Bengal, Foreign Secretary in the British Cabinet, and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Notable achievements include leading forces in the invasion of Mysore and defeating Tipu Sultan, as well as initiating the Second Anglo-Maratha War. His professional life was marked by strategic military successes and diplomatic endeavors that significantly shaped British colonial policies and relationships in India and beyond.

Mick Wallace is a former property developer turned Irish politician, serving as a Member of the European Parliament for the South constituency from 2019 to 2024. He is a member of Independents 4 Change and part of The Left in the European Parliament. With unconventional and left-wing populist views, he gained notoriety for owing significant taxes from his property development days. Wallace has a close political relationship with Clare Daly and is known for his controversial foreign policy stances, particularly regarding Russia and China, which have garnered both criticism and support internationally.

Hugh O'Neill, Earl of Tyrone, was a cunning and strategic Irish Gaelic lord who led the confederacy of Irish clans against the English Crown during the Nine Years' War. He built a strong network of British and Irish contacts to pursue political power, utilizing deception and alliances to resist English incursions. Despite setbacks, he achieved notable victories but ultimately surrendered to the English in 1603. Fleeing to Europe in the Flight of the Earls, he settled in Rome. Historians consider him an enigmatic figure due to his elaborate tactics and uncertain religious convictions.

Eoin O'Duffy was an Irish revolutionary, soldier, police commissioner, and politician known for his involvement in various significant roles. He served as the Chief of Staff of the IRA during the Irish War of Independence, supported the Anglo-Irish Treaty, and became Chief of Staff of the National Army during the Irish Civil War. O'Duffy was also a TD for Monaghan and associated with political parties like Sinn Féin and Cumann na nGaedheal. He later led the Blueshirts and founded the National Corporate Party, while also engaging in sporting administration.

Richard James Mulcahy was an Irish Fine Gael politician and army general, with a distinguished career serving in various government positions including Minister for Education, Minister for the Gaeltacht, Leader of the Opposition, Leader of Fine Gael, Minister for Local Government and Public Health, and Minister for Defence. He was a Teachta Dála (TD) and a Senator, serving in the cabinets of W. T. Cosgrave and John A. Costello. Mulcahy's military career included fighting in the 1916 Easter Rising, serving as Chief of Staff of the Irish Republican Army, and becoming commander-in-chief of the National Army in the Irish Civil War.

Peter Lalor was an Irish-Australian rebel and politician known for his prominent role in the Eureka Rebellion. His leadership during this event, which is considered a pivotal moment in Australian history, brought attention to issues of democratic representation and social justice. Lalor's involvement in the rebellion and subsequent political career showcased his dedication to advocating for the rights of the working class and his commitment to challenging oppressive systems. His legacy as a key figure in Australia's fight for democracy continues to be celebrated today.

Holly Cairns is an Irish politician and the Leader of the Social Democrats since March 2023. She began her political career as a member of Cork County Council for the Bantry local electoral area from 2019 to 2020. In the 2020 general election, she was elected as a Teachta Dála (TD) for Cork South-West. Cairns has been an active advocate for various social and environmental issues, working to bring about positive change in her constituency and beyond through her role in government.

Seán Lemass was an influential Irish politician who served as Taoiseach and Leader of Fianna Fáil from 1959 to 1966. He played key roles as Tánaiste, Minister for Industry and Commerce, and Minister for Supplies in multiple Fianna Fáil governments. A veteran of the 1916 Easter Rising, the War of Independence, and the Civil War, Lemass was a pivotal figure in Irish history. His legacy includes promoting industrial growth, attracting foreign investment, establishing ties with the European community, and implementing significant educational reforms.

Frances Black is an Irish singer and politician known for her contributions to traditional and contemporary Irish music. She gained recognition in the late 1980s by performing with her family's band, the Black Family. In 2016, she was elected as an independent senator to Seanad Éireann, representing the Industrial and Commercial Panel. Black's professional life is marked by a successful music career and a transition into politics, where she continues to make a difference through her work in the Irish Senate.

Jack Lynch was an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who served as Taoiseach from 1966 to 1973 and 1977 to 1979. He was Leader of Fianna Fáil from 1966 to 1979 and Leader of the Opposition from 1973 to 1977. Lynch held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Finance, Minister for Industry and Commerce, Minister for Education, and Minister for the Gaeltacht. He was a Teachta Dála (TD) from 1948 to 1981. Lynch was known for being the last Fianna Fáil leader to achieve an overall majority in the Dáil in 1977.

Henry Cromwell played a significant role in the Parliamentarian regime in Ireland. He served as Lord Deputy of Ireland, overseeing the administration of the English Commonwealth in the country. Cromwell was known for implementing various policies aimed at consolidating English control in Ireland, including land settlement schemes and efforts to suppress rebellion. He was involved in military campaigns against Royalist forces and played a key role in shaping the political landscape of Ireland during this period. Cromwell's tenure as Lord Deputy was marked by both successes and controversies.

Liam Cosgrave was an Irish Fine Gael politician who served as Taoiseach from 1973 to 1977, Leader of Fine Gael from 1965 to 1977, Leader of the Opposition from 1965 to 1973, Minister for External Affairs from 1954 to 1957, and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Industry and Commerce and Government Chief Whip from 1948 to 1951. He was a Teachta Dála (TD) from 1943 to 1981. Cosgrave played a key role in Ireland's entry into the United Nations and led a Fine Gael-Labour Party government during his tenure as Taoiseach.

Edward Bruce, Earl of Carrick, was a key figure in the struggle for the Scottish crown alongside his brother, King Robert the Bruce. After supporting his brother's claim, he ventured to Ireland to pursue his own ambitions. In 1315, he was proclaimed High King of Ireland and subsequently crowned in 1316. However, his rule was short-lived as he faced defeat and met his demise at the Battle of Faughart in 1318 against Anglo-Irish forces. Bruce's professional life was marked by his involvement in Scottish and Irish politics and his aspirations for kingship.

Sir Richard Steele was an influential Anglo-Irish writer, playwright, and politician. He is renowned for co-founding the highly successful magazine The Spectator with his close friend Joseph Addison. Steele played a key role in shaping the literary landscape of 18th-century England through his contributions to The Spectator, which focused on social commentary, satire, and moral teachings. As a playwright, Steele also achieved notable success with works that showcased his wit and insight into society. His multifaceted career left a lasting impact on the literary and political spheres of his time.

Thomas MacDonagh was a prominent figure in Irish political and cultural circles, known for his work as a political activist, poet, playwright, educationalist, and revolutionary leader. He played a key role in the Easter Rising of 1916 as one of its leaders and a signatory of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. MacDonagh also had a significant impact in the field of education, serving as an assistant headmaster and lecturer at prominent institutions. He was involved in various cultural organizations and was a prolific writer of poetry and plays that were performed at esteemed theaters.

Enda Kenny is an Irish former Fine Gael politician who served as Taoiseach from 2011 to 2017. He held various leadership positions within Fine Gael, including Leader of Fine Gael, Minister for Defence, Leader of the Opposition, and Minister for Tourism and Trade. Kenny led Fine Gael to a historic victory in the 2011 general election, becoming the first Fine Gael member to be elected Taoiseach for a second consecutive term in 2016. He stepped down as Leader of Fine Gael in 2017 and resigned as Taoiseach, succeeded by Leo Varadkar.

Joe McDonnell was a dedicated member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) who played a significant role in the Irish Republican movement. He was actively involved in the fight for Irish independence and was committed to his cause. McDonnell's participation in the 1981 Irish hunger strike showcased his unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity. His sacrifices and contributions to the IRA and the Republican movement left a lasting impact on the struggle for Irish sovereignty.

Lucinda Creighton is an Irish businesswoman and former politician with a background in European Affairs. She served as Minister of State for European Affairs from 2011 to 2013. Elected as a Teachta Dála (TD) representing Dublin South-East, she later led the political party Renua from its inception in March 2015 until May 2016. Creighton faced controversy within Fine Gael after voting against a bill related to abortion in 2013, leading to her resignation from the party. She continued to serve as an Independent before the launch of Renua.

Gerard Adams is an Irish republican politician who served as the president of Sinn Féin from 1983 to 2018 and as a Teachta Dála (TD) for Louth from 2011 to 2020. He was a Member of Parliament for Belfast West from 1983 to 1992 and again from 1997 to 2011. Adams played a significant role in the Northern Ireland peace process, engaging in talks with various parties and governments. He led Sinn Féin's shift towards participation in the Oireachtas and the Northern Ireland Assembly, and the IRA's transition to peaceful politics in 2005.

Paddy Holohan is a former professional mixed martial artist and Irish politician. He competed in the flyweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and also fought for Cage Contender. Holohan had a successful MMA career from 2007 to 2016, earning a reputation as a skilled fighter. He gained further recognition by participating in The Ultimate Fighter 18 reality show. After retiring from MMA, Holohan transitioned into politics, where he continues to make an impact in his community.

Helen McEntee is an Irish Fine Gael politician who has served as Minister for Justice since June 2020. She has been a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Meath East constituency since 2013. Prior to her current role, she served as a minister of state from 2016 to 2020, with responsibilities including Mental Health, Older People, and European Affairs. McEntee has taken a strong stance on violence against women and has faced criticism over public safety, hate speech legislation, and asylum seeker issues.

Lynn Ruane is an Irish politician and independent Senator for the Dublin University constituency in Seanad Éireann since April 2016. She previously held the position of President of the Trinity College Dublin Students' Union from 2015 to 2016. Ruane's professional life is characterized by her advocacy for social issues, such as education access, drug policy reform, and social justice. She is known for her commitment to representing the interests of students and marginalized communities, using her platform to drive positive change in Irish society.

Bertie Ahern is an Irish former Fianna Fáil politician who served as Taoiseach from 1997 to 2008 and as Leader of Fianna Fáil from 1994 to 2008. He was a Teachta Dála (TD) from 1977 to 2011, Leader of the Opposition from 1994 to 1997, Lord Mayor of Dublin from 1986 to 1987, Tánaiste in 1994, and Minister for Finance from 1991 to 1994. Ahern led three coalition governments and is the second-longest serving Taoiseach in Ireland.

Elisha McCallion is an Irish former Sinn Féin politician who has held various political positions. She served as a Senator for the Industrial and Commercial Panel for a brief period in 2020. Prior to this, she was the Mayor of Derry in 2015-2016, a Member of Parliament (MP) for Foyle from 2017 to 2019, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Foyle for a few months in 2017. Throughout her career, McCallion has been actively involved in representing her constituents in different capacities.

Mary McAleese is an Irish activist lawyer, academic, author, and former politician who served as the eighth president of Ireland from November 1997 to November 2011. She has a background in law, having graduated from Queen's University Belfast and later becoming a Professor of Criminal Law at Trinity College Dublin. McAleese has also worked as a barrister and journalist with RTÉ. Throughout her presidency, she focused on issues of justice, social equality, social inclusion, anti-sectarianism, and reconciliation, earning recognition for her bridge-building efforts.

Thomas Conway was a major general in the American Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. He played a significant role in the Conway Cabal, a controversial attempt to replace General George Washington. Conway later joined Émigré forces during the French Revolutionary Wars. His military career included various strategic roles and combat experiences, showcasing his tactical expertise and leadership skills. Despite the controversies surrounding the Conway Cabal, his contributions to both the American and French Revolutionary Wars solidified his reputation as a skilled military commander.

Daniel O'Connell, known as The Liberator, was a prominent political leader in 19th-century Ireland. He successfully mobilized Catholic Ireland, achieving Catholic emancipation in 1829. O'Connell was elected to the UK Parliament twice, where he advocated for liberal and reform causes, including abolitionism. Despite his efforts, he was unable to secure the repeal of the Act of Union and the restoration of the Irish Parliament. Ongoing agrarian issues and the Great Famine added challenges to his leadership, leading to internal dissension within the national political movement.

Eileen Flynn is an Irish independent politician with a background in community development and activism for Irish Travellers. She made history by becoming the first Traveller to serve in the Oireachtas, the Irish legislature, after being nominated as a Senator by the Taoiseach in June 2020. Her professional life is marked by a dedication to advocating for marginalized communities and bringing attention to social issues, particularly those affecting the Traveller community.

Clare Daly is an Irish politician who served as a Member of the European Parliament for the Dublin constituency from July 2019 to July 2024. She is a member of Independents 4 Change and part of The Left in the European Parliament. Daly was previously a founding member of "Militant Labour" and later the Socialist Party. She was elected to Fingal County Council and later as a Socialist Party TD for Dublin North. Daly left the Socialist Party to form United Left and gained international attention for her foreign policy positions, particularly on Russia.

Henry Grattan was an Irish politician and lawyer known for his advocacy of legislative freedom for the Irish Parliament in the late 18th century. Serving as a Member of the Irish Parliament and later in Westminster, he was hailed as a superb orator and a romantic figure. Grattan passionately argued for Ireland's independence while maintaining ties with Great Britain through a shared crown and political tradition. Despite opposing the Act of Union 1800, he later participated in the united Parliament in London.

Major-General Robert Ross was an Irish officer in the British Army who served in various battles during the Napoleonic Wars, gaining promotion to colonel. He was wounded in the neck at the Battle of Orthez in France. Ross was then made a major general and sent to North America, where he led British forces on the East Coast. He was instrumental in the Burning of Washington, damaging key U.S. Government buildings. Ross later led a British invasion towards Baltimore, where he was shot and died while commanding troops at North Point.

Kitty Kiernan was a respected businesswoman who managed her family's drapery shop in Longford, Ireland. She was known for her strong work ethic, business acumen, and dedication to providing excellent customer service. Kiernan's leadership and organizational skills were instrumental in the success of the shop, which became a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Her professionalism and commitment to her work earned her a reputation as a savvy and capable businesswoman in the community.

James McHenry was a distinguished Scotch-Irish American military surgeon, statesman, and a Founding Father of the United States. He played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's early history, serving as a signer of the United States Constitution, representing Maryland in the Continental Congress, and advocating for the formation of the Navy. McHenry's contributions extended to his tenure as the United States Secretary of War, where he navigated the administrations of George Washington and John Adams with skill and dedication.

Brian Cowen, an Irish former politician, served as Taoiseach and Leader of Fianna Fáil from 2008 to 2011. He represented the Laois–Offaly constituency as a TD from 1984 to 2011 and held various ministerial positions, including Minister for Finance. Despite initially being elected leader of Fianna Fáil in 2008, his tenure as Taoiseach was marred by criticism due to his handling of the Irish financial and banking crises. Cowen's leadership witnessed a significant decline in public support for Fianna Fáil and he ultimately resigned as party leader and Taoiseach in 2011.

Jackie Healy-Rae was an Irish Independent politician who represented the Kerry South constituency as a Teachta Dála (TD) from 1997 to 2011. He was known for his unique style of politics, often focusing on local issues and advocating for his constituents. Healy-Rae was instrumental in securing funding for various projects in Kerry and was known for his ability to deliver results for his constituents. He was a prominent figure in Irish politics during his time as a TD, gaining popularity for his grassroots approach.

James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, was an Irish statesman and soldier known for his service in various military campaigns, including the Monmouth Rebellion, Williamite War in Ireland, Nine Years' War, and War of the Spanish Succession. Despite his Protestant upbringing, he faced accusations of treason and was forced into exile following the Jacobite rising of 1715. Throughout his career, he demonstrated leadership and tactical prowess in battles and conflicts, leaving a lasting impact on Irish history and military strategy.

Kathleen Florence Lynn was a pioneering Irish doctor, Sinn Féin politician, and social activist. She was deeply moved by the poverty and sickness in the west of Ireland, prompting her to pursue a career in medicine. After studying in England and Germany, she graduated from the Royal University of Ireland and worked in the United States before becoming the first female doctor at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital in Ireland. Lynn also established Saint Ultan's Children's Hospital in 1919, leaving a lasting impact on healthcare for children.

Isaac Butt QC MP was an Irish barrister, editor, and politician known for his leadership in various Irish nationalist parties and organizations. He advocated for Home Rule as a means to strengthen the ties between Ireland and Great Britain, promoting a federalized United Kingdom. As an economist, Butt made significant contributions to resource mobilization and distribution, critiquing the deficiencies in the Irish economy. He also played a key role as an editor, transforming the Dublin University Magazine into a prominent journal covering politics and literature.

Mary Lou McDonald is an Irish politician who has held various significant positions within Sinn Féin, including serving as Vice President and President of the party. She has been a Teachta Dála (TD) for the Dublin Central constituency and a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for Dublin. Following Gerry Adams, McDonald became the President of Sinn Féin in 2018. After the 2020 general election, she became Leader of the Opposition, marking a historic moment as the first woman from a party other than Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael to hold the position.

Admiral of the Fleet Andrew Browne Cunningham, known by his initials "ABC," was a distinguished British officer of the Royal Navy. He commanded a destroyer in WWI, earning the Distinguished Service Order and two Bars. In WWII, as Commander-in-Chief, Mediterranean Fleet, he led British naval forces to victory in crucial battles. Promoted to First Sea Lord in 1943, he oversaw the Royal Navy until retirement in 1946. Ennobled as Viscount Cunningham of Hyndhope, he held various ceremonial positions post-retirement.

Robert Emmet was an Irish Republican, orator, and rebel leader who sought to overthrow the British Crown and Protestant Ascendancy in Ireland. Following the suppression of the United Irish uprising in 1798, Emmet worked towards establishing a nationally representative government. Despite facing challenges such as lack of support from veterans of the '98 uprising and failed coordination with radical militants in Great Britain, Emmet's actions, including his Proclamation of the Provisional Government and his ultimate sacrifice, inspired later generations of Irish republicans.

Averil Power is an Irish former politician who served as a Senator for the Industrial and Commercial Panel from 2011 to 2016. She began her political career as a member of Fianna Fáil but later became an Independent senator after leaving the party in 2015. Despite her independent status, she continued to serve in the Seanad until the end of her term. In 2016, she ran as an Independent candidate for Dáil Éireann but was unsuccessful in securing a seat.

Peadar O'Donnell was a prominent figure in 20th-century Ireland, known for his roles as an Irish republican, socialist politician, and writer. He was a key radical voice advocating for social and political change. O'Donnell's professional life was marked by his active involvement in various movements aimed at fighting for the rights of the working class and promoting Irish nationalism. As a writer, he used his platform to articulate his views on social justice and equality, leaving a lasting impact on Irish political and literary spheres.

Dáithí Ó Conaill was a prominent Irish republican who played a significant role in various paramilitary organizations. He was a member of the IRA Army Council of the Provisional IRA and served as vice-president of Sinn Féin and Republican Sinn Féin. Additionally, he was the first chief of staff of the Continuity IRA from its establishment in 1986 until his passing in 1991. Notably, Ó Conaill is credited with introducing the use of car bombs in Northern Ireland, leaving a lasting impact on the region's conflict.

Hugh de Lacy was an influential Anglo-Norman landowner and royal office-holder. He held substantial land holdings in Herefordshire and Shropshire before being granted the lands of the Kingdom of Meath in Ireland by King Henry II in 1172. Involved in the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland, he had to establish control over Meath, which became the most extensive liberty in the country. De Lacy's professional life was marked by his strategic acquisitions of land and his role in governing the Lordship of Meath.

Brian Lenihan Jnr was an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who held various key positions in the government. He served as Minister for Finance, Deputy leader of Fianna Fáil, Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, and Minister of State for Children during his career. Lenihan was also a Teachta Dála (TD) representing the Dublin West constituency. His contributions to Irish politics were significant, particularly in the areas of finance, justice, equality, law reform, and children's welfare.

Edward Carson was an Irish unionist politician, barrister, and judge. He served as Attorney General and Solicitor General for England, Wales, and Ireland, as well as the First Lord of the Admiralty for the British Royal Navy. Carson was a Member of Parliament for the Dublin University constituency and leader of the Ulster Unionist Council. He played a significant role in the formation of Northern Ireland, securing a continued place in the United Kingdom for the six north-eastern counties. Carson's legal prowess was demonstrated in the famous cross-examination of Oscar Wilde.

General Sir Alan Cunningham was a distinguished British Army officer known for his successes in the East African Campaign during World War II. He later commanded the Eighth Army in the desert campaign, leading to victories over Italian forces. However, he was relieved of command during the Crusader battle against Erwin Rommel. Cunningham's career also saw him serving as the High Commissioner of Palestine. His military leadership and strategic acumen left a lasting impact on the British Army during a crucial period in history.

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill is an accomplished Irish Fine Gael politician with a background in law and public service. She has served as Minister of State for European Affairs since 2024, following her previous role as Minister of State at the Department of Finance. Elected as a Teachta Dála (TD) in 2020, she has a diverse professional background as a solicitor, barrister, and government special advisor. Her career showcases a commitment to public service and a strong understanding of legal and governmental matters.

William Thomas Cosgrave was an Irish Fine Gael politician who held various significant roles in the Irish government, including serving as president of the Executive Council of the Irish Free State, leader of the Opposition, leader of Fine Gael, founder and leader of Cumann na nGaedheal, chairman of the Provisional Government, president of Dáil Éireann, minister for Finance, minister for Local Government, and a Teachta Dála (TD). He is considered Ireland's first Taoiseach, although he never officially held the title.

Robert Stewart, Viscount Castlereagh, was a British statesman known for his roles in suppressing the Rebellion of 1798 in Ireland, securing the Irish Act of Union in 1800, and playing a central role in defeating Napoleon as Foreign Secretary. He was instrumental in organizing the alliance against Napoleon, leading to the Treaty of Chaumont in 1814 and the Congress of Vienna. Despite supporting repressive measures and facing public backlash, Castlereagh advocated for non-intervention and balanced power dynamics in Europe.

Sir Hudson Lowe GCMG KCB was an Anglo-Irish General known for his role during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. He distinguished himself as Governor of St Helena, where he was tasked with overseeing Emperor Napoleon's imprisonment. Lowe's tenure as Napoleon's jailor was marked by strict surveillance and control, earning him both praise and criticism for his management of the high-profile prisoner. His professional life was defined by his military service, administrative capabilities, and the challenging responsibility of supervising a former emperor.

John Aloysius Costello was an Irish Fine Gael politician with a distinguished career in public service. He served as Taoiseach of Ireland on two separate occasions, from 1948 to 1951 and from 1954 to 1957. Additionally, he held the position of Leader of the Opposition from 1951 to 1954 and from 1957 to 1959. Prior to his time as Taoiseach, Costello served as the Attorney General of Ireland from 1926 to 1932. He was also a member of the Irish parliament, known as a Teachta Dála (TD), from 1933 to 1943 and from 1944 to 1969.

William Petty Fitzmaurice, 1st Marquess of Lansdowne, known as the Earl of Shelburne, was an Anglo-Irish Whig statesman who served as the first home secretary in 1782 and as prime minister in 1782–83 during the final months of the American War of Independence. He successfully negotiated peace with America, his most notable achievement. Shelburne also held positions such as Southern Secretary and Prime Minister, but faced challenges and eventually lost influence after leaving office in 1783. He attributed his setbacks to his associations rather than his abilities.

Garret FitzGerald was an Irish Fine Gael politician, public intellectual, economist, and barrister. He served as Taoiseach twice, from 1981 to 1982 and 1982 to 1987, and as Leader of Fine Gael from 1977 to 1987. He also held the position of Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1973 to 1977. A prominent figure in Irish politics, FitzGerald served as a Teachta Dála (TD) from 1969 to 1992 and as a Senator for the Industrial and Commercial Panel from 1965 to 1969.

Kevin Gerard Barry was an Irish Republican Army (IRA) soldier who played a significant role during the Irish War of Independence. He was executed by the British Government for his involvement in an attack on a British Army supply lorry that resulted in the deaths of three soldiers. Barry's execution sparked widespread outrage and intensified nationalist sentiment in Ireland. His impending death sentence garnered international attention and efforts were made to secure a reprieve. Barry's execution further fueled the violence during the bloodiest phase of the Irish War of Independence, solidifying his status as an Irish republican martyr.

Norma Foley is an Irish Fianna Fáil politician who has been serving as the Minister for Education since June 2020. Prior to this role, she has been a Teachta Dála (TD) representing Kerry since 2020. With a background in politics, Foley has played a significant role in shaping education policies and initiatives in Ireland. Her dedication to public service and commitment to the betterment of the education system have made her a respected figure in the political arena.