1916–1921 Club facts for kids
The 1916–1921 Club is a special group that started in the 1940s. Its main goal was to help heal the disagreements and divisions that happened during the Irish Civil War. People who were involved on both sides of that war were invited to join.
The Club also welcomed members of the Association of the Old Dublin Brigade, known as Óglaigh na hÉireann. This group included people who had survived the War of Independence. In the early 1980s, as fewer people were joining the Association, it became part of the 1916–1921 Club.
Anyone who is an Irish citizen can join the Club if they agree with its goals and the important documents it follows. Many important people have been leaders of the Club. These include Captain James Kelly, Sean O’Mahony, and General Michael J. Costello. Many brave people who fought in the War of Independence, like Commandant Sean Sheridan and Commandant Vincent Byrne, were also members.
What the Club Aims To Do
The 1916–1921 Club has several important aims:
- To remember and honor those who died fighting for Ireland's freedom. They also honor everyone who worked to achieve this freedom.
- To keep alive the spirit of Irish identity and unity from the years 1916 to 1921.
- To help create a united, independent, and free Ireland.
- To work towards bringing all Irish people together. They believe that a united Ireland can achieve lasting peace with the British.
- To promote and celebrate Irish traditions and culture.
Important Documents for the Club
The Club bases its goals on several key historical documents. These documents are very important to Ireland's history and its journey to becoming an independent nation.
- The Proclamation of Easter 1916. This was a declaration read during the Easter Rising.
- The Declaration of Independence. This was passed by Dáil Éireann in 1919.
- The Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann). The people of Ireland approved this in 1937.
- The Republic of Ireland Act 1948. The Irish parliament, called the Oireachtas, passed this law.
- A special declaration from Dáil Éireann. This was agreed upon by everyone in May 1949.
