Irish music stars died at age 80

Here are 21 famous musicians from Republic of Ireland died at 80:

Ruairí Ó Brádaigh

Ruairí Ó Brádaigh (October 2, 1932 Longford-June 5, 2013 Roscommon) also known as Ruairi O Bradaigh was an Irish personality.

He was best known for his involvement in Republicanism and was a founding member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA). However, he eventually left the organization due to his opposition to the Good Friday Agreement. He went on to become the President of Sinn Féin, but left the party in 1986 to form Republican Sinn Féin. Ó Brádaigh was a controversial figure in Irish politics due to his strong beliefs in Irish sovereignty and his rejection of the peace process. He remained active in politics and was involved in several unsuccessful attempts to unify Republicans in Northern Ireland. In addition to his political career, he was also a lecturer in Irish and History at St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra.

Ó Brádaigh was born into a Republican family in Longford and grew up with a strong sense of Irish nationalism. He joined Sinn Féin when he was 17 years old and became involved in Republican activities. He was arrested several times for his involvement in protests and riots.

In 1955, Ó Brádaigh joined the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and served as its Chief of Staff from 1958 to 1962. He played a key role in the formation of the Provisional IRA in 1969, but later left the group due to his opposition to the Good Friday Agreement, which he believed compromised Irish sovereignty.

After leaving Sinn Féin in 1986, Ó Brádaigh founded Republican Sinn Féin, a political party focused on the reunification of Ireland under Republican principles. He remained an active member of the party until his death in 2013.

Despite his controversial views, Ó Brádaigh was respected by many in the Republican movement for his dedication and commitment to Irish sovereignty. His lectures at St. Patrick's College were also highly regarded, and he was known for his deep knowledge of Irish history and language.

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Tom Aherne

Tom Aherne (January 26, 1919 Limerick-December 30, 1999 Luton) was an Irish personality.

He was an accomplished athlete, known for his skill in the high jump and for competing at the 1948 Olympic Games in London. After retiring from athletics, Aherne worked for many years in the automobile industry in the UK. He also had a passion for music and was known to play the piano and sing in his spare time. Aherne was highly regarded for his friendly and outgoing personality, and he remained popular with friends and colleagues throughout his life.

In addition to his Olympic career, Tom Aherne also represented Ireland in the high jump competition at the European Championships in both 1946 and 1950. He held the Irish record in the high jump for several years and was known for his innovative techniques, such as the "scissors" technique, which he popularized.

During his time in the UK, Aherne worked for Vauxhall Motors in Luton, where he eventually became a highly respected manager. He was known for his strong work ethic and positive attitude, which earned him the admiration of his colleagues.

In his personal life, Tom Aherne was a devoted family man. He was married to his wife, Mary, for over 50 years and had six children. Aherne was also known for his love of his hometown of Limerick, and he maintained close ties to the community throughout his life.

After his death in 1999, Aherne was remembered fondly by friends and family for his infectious personality and his many accomplishments in athletics and business. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes in Ireland today.

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Billy Behan

Billy Behan (August 8, 1911 Dublin-November 11, 1991) was an Irish personality.

He was best known for his career as a stage and screen actor, as well as his work as a theatre director. Behan began his acting career in Dublin in the 1930s and went on to perform on stages in London and New York City. He appeared in the films "Odd Man Out" and "The Sea Shall Not Have Them" among others. Later in his career, Behan also worked as a theatre director and was involved in productions at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. In addition to his career in the arts, Behan was a noted bon vivant and was known for his sense of humor and love of socializing. He was also the brother of Irish writer Brendan Behan.

Behan was born into a family of 10 children in Dublin's inner city, where he grew up in poverty. He left school at 14 and worked various jobs before joining the Gaelic League where he discovered his love of drama. He went on to join the Abbey School of Acting, where he trained under legendary Irish actor Micheál Mac Liammóir. Behan became a prolific actor, performing in a wide range of plays and films throughout his career, including "The Plough and the Stars" and "The Irishman" on Broadway.

Behan was also an accomplished director, and his work at the Abbey Theatre helped to shape the development of Irish theatre in the mid-20th century. He directed the world premiere of Brendan Behan's play "An Giall" in 1954, and went on to direct several other productions at the theater, including Sean O'Casey's "Juno and the Paycock" and Samuel Beckett's "Krapp's Last Tape".

In addition to his work in the arts, Behan was a well-known social figure in Dublin, and was often seen at the city's best-known restaurants and bars. He had a keen wit, and was known for his love of a good joke and a hearty laugh. Behan died at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland's most beloved actors and directors.

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Jack Kirwan

Jack Kirwan (February 9, 1878 Dunlavin-January 9, 1959 London) was an Irish personality.

He was known for his work as a sports journalist, broadcaster, and quizmaster. Kirwan was a regular contributor to newspapers such as The Irish Times and The Daily Mail, and was also known for his coverage of the Olympic Games. He gained national fame in the 1940s and 1950s as the quizmaster of the popular radio show "Ask the Minister," in which he posed questions to government officials. Kirwan was also involved in the foundation of the National Athletic and Cycling Association, which later became the Irish Amateur Athletic Association. In his later years, Kirwan moved to London where he continued to write and work as a broadcaster until his death in 1959.

Kirwan began his journalism career at a young age, writing for local papers in Dublin. He gained a reputation as a skilled and knowledgeable writer, particularly in the area of sports. He covered major sporting events in Ireland and around the world, including the Wimbledon tennis championships and the Tour de France. In 1912, Kirwan was appointed as the sports editor of The Irish Times, a position he held for nearly 30 years.

Kirwan's work as a quizmaster on "Ask the Minister" made him a household name in Ireland. The show was immensely popular, and Kirwan's calm and confident demeanor made him a trusted figure for listeners. He was known for his impartiality and fairness in posing questions to government officials, regardless of their political affiliation.

In addition to his work as a journalist and broadcaster, Kirwan was also a passionate advocate for sports in Ireland. He was instrumental in the foundation of the National Athletic and Cycling Association, which aimed to promote sports and physical fitness across the country. The organization later became the Irish Amateur Athletic Association, with Kirwan serving as its first honorary secretary.

Despite his many accomplishments, Kirwan remained humble and dedicated to his work. He was highly respected by his colleagues and peers, and his legacy as one of Ireland's most prominent journalists and broadcasters continues to endure.

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Patrick McGoohan

Patrick McGoohan (March 19, 1928 Astoria-January 13, 2009 Santa Monica) also known as Patrick Joseph McGoohan, Paddy Fitz or Joseph Serf was an Irish actor, television director, television producer and screenwriter. He had three children, Catherine McGoohan, Frances McGoohan and Anne McGoohan.

McGoohan is best known for his role as Secret Agent John Drake in the British television series "Danger Man" (1960-1962) and as the enigmatic Number Six in the cult classic television series "The Prisoner" (1967-1968). He also appeared in films such as "Ice Station Zebra" (1968), "Escape from Alcatraz" (1979), and "Braveheart" (1995). McGoohan was known for his intense and idiosyncratic performances and for his exploration of political and philosophical themes in his work. He won two Primetime Emmy Awards and a BAFTA over the course of his career.

McGoohan started his career in the entertainment industry as a stage actor in the 1950s. He made his film debut in "Passage Home" (1955) and went on to appear in numerous films throughout his career. Besides acting in and directing episodes of "Danger Man" and "The Prisoner", he also produced and wrote several TV shows.

In addition to his successful acting career, McGoohan was also a talented artist and held exhibitions of his paintings and sculptures. He was known for being a private individual and rarely gave interviews, preferring to let his work speak for itself.

McGoohan passed away in 2009 at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy as a respected actor and artist in the entertainment industry.

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Francis Browne

Francis Browne (January 3, 1880 Cork-July 7, 1960 Dublin) also known as Francis Patrick Mary Browne or Frank Browne was an Irish photographer and priest.

Browne is best known for his striking black and white photographs of the RMS Titanic, which he had documented during the ship's ill-fated maiden voyage in April 1912. His iconic images of the luxurious interiors and passengers aboard the Titanic have become an important part of the ship's history.

In addition to his work as a photographer, Browne was also a Jesuit priest and spent much of his life serving in various parishes and missions throughout Ireland. Despite his many accomplishments, Browne remained humble and dedicated to his faith, never seeking recognition or fame for his work.

After his death in 1960, Browne's vast collection of photographs and negatives were discovered in the Jesuit archives in Dublin. Today, his images of the Titanic and other historic events continue to captivate audiences and inspire photographers around the world.

Browne was born into a wealthy Cork family and became interested in photography at an early age. He received his first camera as a gift from his uncle when he was just 17 years old and immediately began experimenting with composition and lighting. Browne eventually went on to study theology and was ordained a Jesuit priest in 1902.

Browne's talent for photography was recognized by his superiors, who asked him to document the construction of the Titanic in Belfast in 1911. He was later offered a ticket for the ship's maiden voyage in April 1912, but was instructed by his superiors to return to Dublin before the ship departed.

As fate would have it, Browne disembarked just in time and did not join the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. His photographs, however, remain an invaluable record of the ship's brief but storied journey.

Later in life, Browne continued to travel and capture images of historical landmarks and events, including the First World War, the Eucharistic Congress in Dublin in 1932, and the killing fields of Cambodia in the 1950s.

Today, Browne is remembered as one of Ireland's foremost photographers and as a dedicated servant of God. His photographs of the Titanic remain some of the most iconic and powerful images of the ship ever taken.

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Robert Kane

Robert Kane (September 24, 1809 Dublin-February 16, 1890 Dublin) was an Irish chemist. He had one child, Henry Coey Kane.

Robert Kane was known for his tireless work in the fields of industrial chemistry and natural philosophy. He received a degree in medicine from the University of Edinburgh in 1830 but eventually decided to pursue a career in chemistry instead. Throughout his life, Kane made significant contributions to the fields of chemical analysis and the production of various chemicals, including iodine and soda ash.

In addition to his work in the laboratory, Kane was also an accomplished writer and lecturer. He wrote several books on chemistry, including his most famous work, "Elements of Chemistry", which was used as a textbook for many years. He was also a professor of chemistry at the Royal Dublin Society and helped to establish the Chemical Society of London.

Kane was a prolific scholar and was recognized for his contributions to the field of chemistry with several honors and awards throughout his lifetime. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1839 and was awarded a Royal Medal in 1856. In addition, he was also awarded the Copley Medal in 1861 for his research into the nature of molecular forces.

Throughout his life, Robert Kane remained dedicated to his work and his research. He was known for his unwavering commitment to the scientific method and his tireless efforts to expand our understanding of the natural world. Today, he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of chemistry and his legacy continues to inspire scientists around the world.

Despite suffering from partial blindness due to an explosion in his laboratory, Kane continued to work and make significant contributions to the field. He discovered the process of condensing gas into liquids, which led to the development of the first oil refinery in Ireland. In addition, Kane was a strong advocate for improving the education and training of chemists, and he played an important role in establishing the Royal College of Science for Ireland.Kane was also involved in political activities and was a vocal supporter of Irish nationalism. He served as a member of Parliament for County Dublin from 1868 to 1871 and was one of the founding members of the Irish Academy of Science. Despite his many accomplishments and accolades, Kane remained a humble and dedicated scientist until the end of his life. His legacy as a pioneering chemist, writer, and educator continues to inspire scientists around the world today.

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Dick Rowley

Dick Rowley (January 13, 1904 Enniskillen-April 18, 1984 Southampton) was an Irish personality.

Dick Rowley was an Irish personality known for his talent in the sports of cricket and rugby. He played as a left-handed batsman and a left-arm medium bowler for the Northamptonshire County Cricket Club. He was a regular player of the club from 1928 to 1947 and was selected as the club's captain from 1947 to 1949.

Aside from cricket, Rowley was also a skilled rugby player who played as a fly-half for the Northampton Rugby Football Club. He was part of the team that won the English rugby union championship in the 1927-28 season.

After his retirement as a player, Rowley ventured into coaching and became one of the significant coaches of Northamptonshire County Cricket Club. He also played a crucial role in developing young and aspiring cricketers in the Hampshire district.

Rowley's contributions to cricket and rugby have been recognized and awarded with his induction into the Northamptonshire County Cricket Club Hall of Fame and the Irish Rugby Football Union Hall of Fame.

In addition to his successful career in sports, Rowley was also an accomplished soldier during World War II. He served in the British Army and earned a military cross for his bravery on the front lines. After the war, he returned to his beloved sports, but he remained an active member of the British Legion and often donated his time and resources to help support veteran initiatives.Rowley was a beloved figure in both the cricket and rugby communities, known for his sportsmanship, leadership, and dedication to the game. He passed away in 1984 in Southampton, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of athletes.

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Frank Stockwell

Frank Stockwell (December 7, 1928 Tuam-March 9, 2009) was an Irish personality.

He was best known for his career in broadcasting and journalism. Stockwell spent over 30 years working for RTE, the national broadcaster in Ireland. He began his career as a radio announcer in the 1950s and later became a television presenter, anchoring the news program on RTE for several years. Additionally, Stockwell was a published author and wrote several books about Irish history and culture. He was also a passionate supporter of the arts and served as the director of the Galway Arts Festival for many years. Throughout his career, Stockwell was widely respected for his intelligence, dedication, and professionalism.

In addition to his work as a broadcaster, journalist, and author, Stockwell was also a prominent political figure in Ireland. He was an active member of the Fianna Fáil political party and served as a senator in the Irish parliament for several years. Stockwell was known for his commitment to social justice and was a vocal advocate for the rights of marginalized groups, including women and the LGBTQ+ community. He also played a key role in shaping Irish broadcasting policy, serving on numerous committees and advisory boards throughout his career. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Stockwell was remembered for his warm personality and love of Irish culture. He was an avid collector of traditional Irish music and art, and often used his platform as a broadcaster to promote and celebrate the country's rich cultural heritage.

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David Lyner

David Lyner (January 9, 1893 Belfast-December 5, 1973 Belfast) was an Irish personality.

David Lyner was a prominent figure in Irish politics, best known for his involvement in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence. Lyner was a leading member of the IRA's Belfast Brigade and played a key role in several of the IRA's most significant military operations in Northern Ireland. Following the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921, Lyner opposed the agreement and remained active in the IRA. He was subsequently arrested and imprisoned by British authorities. After his release, Lyner continued to be involved in republican politics and remained a controversial figure throughout his life. In addition to his political activities, Lyner was also a noted athlete and competed in several national and international sporting events.

Lyner's involvement in republican politics continued throughout his life, and he was a member of Sinn Féin, the political party that emerged from the IRA. He was also involved in trade unionism and served as Secretary of the Belfast Trades Council in the 1930s.

In addition to his political and union activities, Lyner was an accomplished athlete. He was a member of the Irish team that competed in the 1924 Olympic Games in Paris, where he placed fifth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. He also won the Irish national championship in that event in 1921, 1922, and 1923.

Despite his political and athletic achievements, Lyner remained a controversial figure in Irish public life due to his association with the IRA and his opposition to the Anglo-Irish Treaty. He died in Belfast on December 5, 1973, at the age of 80.

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Joe Kelly

Joe Kelly (March 13, 1913 Dublin-November 28, 1993) was an Irish race car driver.

He began his career in the 1930s and won the prestigious Irish Grand Prix in 1936, driving a Riley. Kelly was known for his skill in driving on wet and slippery roads, and he gained a reputation as a fearless driver. In 1938, he competed in the Tripoli Grand Prix and finished in sixth place. However, his racing career was cut short due to World War II. After the war, he became a successful businessman and served on the board of several companies in Ireland. Kelly was also involved in the sports of greyhound racing and showjumping, and he owned several successful horses. He was inducted into the Irish Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2015.

Despite the brevity of his career, Joe Kelly left a mark on Irish motoring, with his racing successes contributing to the development of the sport in the country. During the war, Kelly served as a captain in the Irish Guards, before returning to Ireland to pursue business ventures. His business acumen led him to found The Green Isle Group, which operated in the food industry, and to acquire the Russell Hotel in Dublin. Kelly's affinity for greyhound racing saw him become a patron of the sport, and he owned both racing dogs and coursing hounds. Additionally, he was an accomplished showjumper, and at one point owned the 1948 Olympic champion, Foxhunter. Kelly's impact on Irish sport led to him being awarded the title of "Dublin Man of the Year" in 1967.

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Columba McDyer

Columba McDyer (January 13, 1921 County Donegal-September 18, 2001) was an Irish personality.

She was best known for her work in promoting Irish culture and language through her teaching and writing. McDyer was a respected authority on the Irish language and was the founder of the Inishowen Traditional Singers' Circle. Through this organization, she helped to preserve traditional Irish songs and music. She was also a frequent contributor to local newspapers, writing articles on a variety of subjects related to Irish culture. Additionally, she was involved in the establishment and running of the Colmcille Heritage Centre in County Donegal. In recognition of her contributions to Irish culture, McDyer was awarded the Irish government's prestigious Eircom National Heritage award in 2000.

McDyer was born into a family of farmers in County Donegal, Ireland. She grew up speaking Irish Gaelic, the native language of the Irish people. McDyer went on to study Irish and English at University College Dublin, where she earned a degree in 1944. After graduating, she taught Irish and English at secondary schools in Ireland for many years.

In addition to her work in education, McDyer was also an accomplished writer. She published several books on Irish culture, including a memoir about her childhood in Donegal called "All The Way To Inishowen." The book was well-received and was praised for its vivid descriptions of rural Ireland.

Throughout her life, McDyer was committed to preserving and promoting Irish culture. She was a founding member of the Inishowen Traditional Singers' Circle, which was established in 1966. The group became a hub for traditional Irish musicians and singers, and still exists today.

McDyer was also instrumental in the establishment and development of the Colmcille Heritage Centre in Gartan, County Donegal. The center was created to celebrate the life and legacy of Saint Colmcille, a 6th century Irish monk who is known for his contributions to Irish culture and history.

McDyer passed away on September 18, 2001, at the age of 80. She left behind a lasting legacy as a champion of Irish culture and language. Today, she is remembered as one of Ireland's most important cultural figures.

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George Moore

George Moore (February 24, 1852 County Mayo-January 21, 1933 Pimlico) was an Irish writer, novelist, playwright, author and art critic.

Moore was a prominent figure in the cultural and artistic scene in late 19th and early 20th century England and Ireland. He was associated with the Irish literary renaissance and played a key role in the establishment of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin. Throughout his career, Moore wrote over 30 books, including novels such as "Esther Waters" and "The Lake", as well as essays, memoirs, and literary criticism. In addition to his literary work, Moore was also an accomplished art critic and played an important role in promoting French art in Britain. He was a member of the Royal Society of British Artists and was celebrated for his keen eye for detail and appreciation of the avant-garde. Over the course of his career, Moore's work received both critical acclaim and controversy, with some of his more controversial books facing censorship and legal challenges. Despite these challenges, Moore remained a prolific writer and thinker until his death in 1933.

Moore was born into a wealthy family and was sent to study at Eton College in England, but he later returned to Ireland to study at Trinity College Dublin. After graduation, he briefly pursued a career in painting in Paris, but eventually turned to writing. His early works mostly dealt with the lives and struggles of the working class, but he later turned to exploring more complex themes such as sexuality, religion, and politics.

In addition to his literary and artistic work, Moore's personal life was also marked by controversy. He had a series of affairs and was known for his flamboyant lifestyle. He also had a strained relationship with his family due to his rejection of their Catholic faith.

Despite these challenges, Moore's contributions to Irish and English literature and art were significant. He was a friend and contemporary of other prominent writers of his time, including Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats. Today, he is recognized as a pioneering figure in the modernist movement and is celebrated for his contributions to Irish cultural identity.

He died caused by uremia.

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George Brent

George Brent (March 15, 1899 Roscommon-May 26, 1979 Solana Beach) also known as George Brendan Nolan or George Nolan was an Irish actor. He had two children, Barry Brent and Suzanne Brent.

George Brent began his acting career in theatre in London before transitioning into films. He appeared in over 100 films during his career, including "Dark Victory," "Jezebel," and "The Great Lie," which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Brent was known for his talent as a romantic lead in films during the 1930s and 1940s. He was also briefly married to actresses Ruth Chatterton and Ann Sheridan. In addition to acting, Brent served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II.

In his early acting career, George Brent appeared in several successful plays in London's West End. His breakout role came in the 1929 Broadway play "Love, Honor and Betray," which led to his signing with Warner Bros. Pictures in the early 1930s. Brent quickly became a regular leading man at the studio, appearing in films such as "42nd Street" and "Baby Face." During the 1940s, he continued to star in successful films, including "The Spiral Staircase" and "The Affairs of Martha," which marked his final film appearance in 1942. Brent had a reputation as a consummate professional and was well-liked by his colleagues in Hollywood. Although his career slowed down in the 1950s, he continued to appear in films and television shows until his retirement in the mid-1960s. George Brent was a talented actor whose work has continued to be appreciated for decades after his death.

He died in emphysema.

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Kevin McClory

Kevin McClory (June 8, 1926 Dublin-November 20, 2006 Dublin) also known as Kevin O'Donovan McClory was an Irish screenwriter, film producer and film director.

McClory was best known for his work on the James Bond franchise. He collaborated with Ian Fleming on a screenplay that would eventually become the novel Thunderball, and was later granted the film rights to the story. He went on to produce the 1965 film adaptation of Thunderball, which starred Sean Connery as James Bond. McClory would later be involved in legal battles over the rights to the story, and was able to produce two more Bond films, Never Say Never Again (1983) and Warhead (never produced).

In addition to his work on the Bond franchise, McClory also produced and directed several other films, including the 1968 adaptation of the novel Luv by Murray Schisgal. He was awarded the CBE (Commander of the British Empire) in 1998 for his contributions to the film industry.

McClory's involvement in the James Bond franchise extended beyond just producing and directing films. He also acted as a consultant on several Bond movies, including You Only Live Twice and Diamonds Are Forever. McClory also attempted to create a Bond film that would have been a remake of Thunderball, titled Warhead 8, in the 1990s. However, legal issues prevented the film from being made.

In addition to his work in film, McClory was also a pilot and an adventurer. He flew a small aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean in the 1950s and participated in several expeditions, including a trip to Antarctica with Sir Edmund Hillary.

McClory passed away in 2006 at the age of 80 in his hometown of Dublin, Ireland. His contributions to the James Bond franchise are still celebrated by fans around the world.

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Goddard Henry Orpen

Goddard Henry Orpen (May 8, 1852-May 15, 1932 Enniscorthy) was an Irish historian.

Orpen was born in Naval Service Hill, near Dublin, Ireland. He was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and studied law at King's Inns. However, he realized that law was not his passion and instead spent most of his life writing historical works. Orpen is best known for his notable work "The Anglo-Norman Settlement of Ireland", a six-volume project published between 1894 and 1911 that covered the period from the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in Ireland until the year 1318. Additionally, he wrote a number of other important historical works such as "Ireland Under the Normans", "Norman Institutions", and "The Song of Dermot and the Earl". Orpen was also a devoted linguistic scholar who spoke nine languages and was proficient in eighteen. He was recognized as one of Ireland's leading historians of his time and was awarded the degree of LL.D. by Trinity College.

Orpen was not only an esteemed historian but also a committed public servant. He served as a member of the Irish Land Commission, which was responsible for redistributing land from wealthy landlords to tenant farmers during the early 20th century. Orpen was also active in the Irish literary scene and was friends with many prominent literary figures of his time, including W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory. In his later years, he suffered from blindness but still continued his research and writing with the help of his daughter Edith. Orpen's contributions to Irish history and scholarship remain highly regarded to this day.

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Valentine Browne, 5th Earl of Kenmare

Valentine Browne, 5th Earl of Kenmare (December 1, 1860-November 14, 1941) was an Irish personality. He had one child, Valentine Browne, 6th Earl of Kenmare.

Valentine Browne was born in Ireland and was educated at Eton College in England. He inherited the title of Earl of Kenmare from his father, William Browne, 4th Earl of Kenmare, in 1905.

Throughout his life, Valentine Browne was known for his love of outdoor pursuits, particularly yachting and hunting. He was also a keen supporter of the arts, serving as a benefactor of the Abbey Theatre in Dublin.

In addition to his estate in Ireland, the Earl also owned property in England and France. He passed away at the age of 80 and was succeeded by his son, Valentine Browne, 6th Earl of Kenmare.

Valentine Browne, 5th Earl of Kenmare, was also known for his philanthropic pursuits. He donated large sums of money to help alleviate the suffering of the Irish people during times of hardship, such as during the Irish Famine. He was also an active member of the Irish Red Cross and was instrumental in establishing their work in Ireland.

In addition to his philanthropy, Valentine Browne was well regarded for his leadership and diplomacy. During his time as the Earl of Kenmare, he was elected the High Sheriff of Kerry and served as a member of the Irish Senate. He was also a respected member of the Anglo-Irish community and worked tirelessly to improve relations between the two countries.

Valentine Browne's legacy lives on in his family and in the many institutions he supported during his lifetime. The Kenmare Estate remains a significant landmark in Ireland, and the Abbey Theatre continues to thrive as an important cultural institution.

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Emmet Dalton

Emmet Dalton (March 4, 1898 United States of America-March 4, 1978 Dublin) also known as James Emmet Dalton was an Irish film producer and soldier. He had one child, Audrey Dalton.

Emmet Dalton is best known for his role in the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. He served as a lieutenant in the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and was a member of the Dublin Brigade. In 1921, he was involved in the ambush of a British convoy at Ashtown, during which he was injured and captured. He was subsequently sentenced to death, but his sentence was commuted to life imprisonment.

Dalton spent several years in prison before being released as part of a general amnesty in 1924. He then emigrated to the United States, where he worked in the film industry. He is credited with pioneering the use of location shooting in Hollywood, and his films include "The Guns of Navarone" and "The Day the Earth Caught Fire."

In the 1950s, Dalton returned to Ireland and became involved in politics. He was twice elected to the Irish parliament as a member of the Fianna Fáil party. He also served as a member of the Irish Film Censorship Board and played a key role in establishing the Irish Film Institute.

Emmet Dalton passed away in Dublin in 1978 at the age of 80.

In addition to his achievements in film and politics, Emmet Dalton was a published author. His memoir, "With the Dublin Brigade," is a vivid account of his experiences in the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. The book is considered a valuable historical record of the events of that period. Dalton also wrote several novels, including "The Glory of the Trenches," which was based on his experiences as a soldier in World War I. Despite his military background, Dalton became an advocate for peace in later life and was involved in various peace initiatives, including efforts to resolve the conflict in Northern Ireland. He remained active in the film industry until his death, and in his later years, he received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field. Dalton's legacy is celebrated in Ireland and Hollywood, where he is remembered as an important figure in both the struggle for Irish independence and the development of the film industry.

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Thomas Grace

Thomas Grace (August 2, 1841 Wexford-December 27, 1921) was an Irish priest.

He was ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in 1865 and soon became known for his fervent support of Irish independence. In 1887, he was appointed as the chaplain of Kilmainham Gaol where many Irish political prisoners were held. He counselled and comforted the prisoners, earning a reputation as a compassionate and empathetic pastor. He was also an accomplished linguist, speaking 18 languages fluently, and often used his language skills to communicate with prisoners from different countries. He continued his work as a priest until his death in 1921, and to this day is regarded as a symbol of Irish resistance against British rule.

In addition to his advocacy for Irish independence, Thomas Grace was also known for his progressive views on education. He supported the opening of new schools and worked to improve the quality of education for both boys and girls. He was credited with establishing the first school for deaf children in Ireland in 1876. Grace was also known for his philanthropic activities, and he dedicated much of his time and resources to the poor and disadvantaged in his community. He was a prolific writer and speaker, using his platform to promote social justice and equality for all. Despite facing opposition and criticism for his beliefs, Grace remained steadfast in his commitment to his values and his people, leaving a lasting legacy as a figure of compassion and courage.

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Bernard Smith

Bernard Smith (September 12, 1812 County Cavan-December 11, 1892 Rome) was an Irish abbot.

He joined the religious order of St. Benedict at a young age and made his profession in 1830. Smith served as the abbot of his monastery for several years before being elected as Abbot President of the English Benedictine Congregation in 1881. He was known for his skill in administration and his commitment to the preservation of Catholic tradition. In 1887, he was awarded the title of "monsignor" by Pope Leo XIII. He died in Rome in 1892 and was buried at the Campo Verano cemetery.

During his time as Abbot President, Smith oversaw the development of several monasteries and educational institutions throughout England. He was also an advocate for higher education among Catholic communities and helped establish St. Anselm's College in Birkenhead. Smith was a prolific writer, producing numerous works on religious topics and Church history. One of his major contributions was his three volume history of the English Benedictine order, which is still used as a reference today. Beyond his religious duties, Smith was a respected member of the academic community and received honorary degrees from several universities including the University of Oxford.

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Henry Hugh Peter Deasy

Henry Hugh Peter Deasy (April 5, 1866 Dublin-February 1, 1947) was an Irish personality.

Deasy was a well-known lawyer and politician, serving as a Member of Parliament in the early 20th century. He was also involved in the Irish War of Independence, serving as a member of the British Crown Forces and later as a supporter of Irish independence. In 1922, he was appointed as the first Governor-General of the Irish Free State, a position he held until 1927. Deasy was known for his strong opinions and decisive actions, and his leadership was instrumental in the early years of the Free State. He later retired from politics to focus on his legal career, and he remained active in the legal profession until his death in 1947.

Deasy was born into a family of lawyers, and he was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, where he earned both undergraduate and graduate degrees in law. He was called to the bar in 1890, and soon became a prominent figure in Irish legal circles. In addition to his political and legal pursuits, Deasy was also a skilled athlete, having represented Ireland in rugby union at the international level.

During the Irish War of Independence, Deasy initially served as a member of the British Crown Forces, but he later became a supporter of Irish independence and joined the ranks of the nationalist movement. His experience on both sides of the conflict gave him a unique perspective, and he played an important role in the negotiations that led to the establishment of the Irish Free State.

As Governor-General, Deasy helped to oversee the transition from British rule to an independent Irish state, establishing many of the structures and policies that would form the basis of Irish governance for decades to come. Although he faced significant challenges, including the Irish Civil War and the ongoing struggle for Irish reunification, his leadership helped to guide the nascent Free State through some of its most difficult moments.

After retiring from politics, Deasy continued to work as a lawyer, and he was widely regarded as one of Ireland's most respected legal minds. He was honored with a number of awards and accolades throughout his career, including a knighthood and an appointment as a Privy Councillor. He remained a beloved figure in Irish politics and society until his death in 1947.

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