History of Ireland during 1917–1918, but the Irish sides (Nationalist, Unionist) were unable to agree to terms for the temporary or permanent exclusion of Ulster from its provisions. The period 1916–1921 was marked by political violence and upheaval, ending in the partition of Ireland and independence for 26 of its 32 counties. A failed militant attempt was made to gain separate independence for Ireland with the 1916 Easter Rising, an insurrection in Dublin. Though support for the insurgents was small, the violence used in its suppression led to a swing in support of the rebels. In addition, the unprecedented threat of Irishmen being
Centenary of the Easter Rising Easter Rising centenary parade occurred in Dublin city on Easter Day, 27 March. It was shown live on RTÉ and attended by such dignitaries as President Michael D. Higgins, First Lady Sabina Coyne, Acting Taoiseach Enda Kenny, his wife, the Garda Commissioner Nóirín O'Sullivan, Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl, former Presidents Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese, former Taoisigh Bertie Ahern (accompanied by his brother Noel Ahern), Brian Cowen and Liam Cosgrave, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin and Martin McGuinness (representing the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister). On Easter Monday (28 March), President Higgins and Acting Taoiseach