Easter Rising in Ireland. In Dublin, Irish nationalists led by Patrick Pearse launched the Easter Rising against British rule. The nationalists attacked provincial government centers and occupied the post office, proclaiming Irish independence. Within 24 hours, the city fell under their control. But the British retaliated, and on April 29, the uprising was crushed. Pearse and 14 other nationalist leaders were executed, becoming martyrs for many Irish people. Armed protest continued, and in 1922, much of Ireland achieved independence, proclaiming the Irish Free State. Six northern counties of the island remained part of the United Kingdom. Some nationalist groups later founded the Irish Republican Army (IRA) to continue the fight for independence.
