William Bernard O'Donoghue facts for kids
William Bernard O'Donoghue (born in 1843, died in 1878) was an important Irish-American figure. He is best known for his role in a big event in Canadian history called the Red River Rebellion. During this time, he worked as the treasurer for a temporary government set up by Louis Riel in a place called the Red River Colony.
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Who Was William O'Donoghue?
William O'Donoghue was born in Ireland in 1843. Later, he moved to the United States. He became involved in politics and the lives of people in North America. He is remembered for his part in a historical event in what is now Canada.
Working with Louis Riel
In 1869, William O'Donoghue joined Louis Riel during the Red River Rebellion. This rebellion happened because the Métis people, who were of mixed Indigenous and European heritage, were worried about their land and rights. They wanted to make sure their way of life was protected as Canada grew.
Riel and his supporters formed a temporary government. This kind of government is set up for a short time to manage things during a crisis. O'Donoghue became the treasurer for this group. His job was to manage the money and finances for their temporary government.
A New Plan: The Fenian Raid
After the Red River Rebellion ended in 1870, O'Donoghue went to the United States with Louis Riel. They had different ideas about what to do next. O'Donoghue thought the American government should help the Métis people. However, Riel did not agree with this plan.
By 1871, O'Donoghue joined a group called the Fenian Brotherhood. This group was made up of Irish-Americans who wanted to help Ireland become independent. O'Donoghue led a small group of 35 men. On October 5, 1871, they crossed the border into Manitoba, Canada. This was an attempt to start another uprising.
The Raid's Outcome
O'Donoghue hoped the Métis people would join his group. However, they did not support his raid. Instead, the Métis people arrested O'Donoghue. They then handed him over to American authorities in Minnesota. The raid failed, and O'Donoghue's plans did not work out.
Later Life and Passing
After the failed raid, William O'Donoghue started a new career. He became a schoolteacher. He taught children and lived a quieter life. William O'Donoghue died a few years later, on March 16, 1878. He passed away from a lung illness called tuberculosis in St. Paul, Minnesota.
