Pathetic Facts

Irish music stars died at age 75

Here are 18 famous musicians from Republic of Ireland died at 75:

Dan Breen

Dan Breen (August 11, 1894 County Tipperary-December 27, 1969 Dublin) was an Irish personality.

Dan Breen was an Irish revolutionary and nationalist who played a prominent role in the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921). He was a member of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and was involved in several high-profile attacks on British forces. After the war, Breen became involved in politics and was elected to the Irish parliament, where he served for several decades. He was also a published author, and his memoir, "My Fight for Irish Freedom," remains an important document of the period. Breen continued to be a controversial figure throughout his life, and his legacy remains a subject of debate in Ireland to this day.

Born into a family of farmers, Breen left school at an early age to work as a laborer. However, he was drawn to the cause of Irish independence and joined the Irish Volunteers, a precursor to the IRA, in 1917. Breen became one of the most notorious figures in the IRA during the War of Independence, and his exploits included the Soloheadbeg ambush in which two Royal Irish Constabulary officers were killed, sparking the beginning of the war.

Breen survived several assassination attempts by British forces during the war and went on to become an important political figure in the early decades of independent Ireland. He was a member of the Fianna Fáil party and served as a member of parliament in both the Dáil (lower house) and Seanad (upper house).

In his later years, Breen was a frequent critic of those who sought to make peace with Northern Ireland and was also involved in opposition to the Cuban revolution. Despite his controversial opinions, Breen was widely respected in Ireland for his role in the struggle for independence and his tireless commitment to Irish nationalism.

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Charles Mitchel

Charles Mitchel (November 8, 1920 Dublin-August 18, 1996 Dublin) was an Irish actor.

He was born in Dublin and studied at the Samuel Beckett Centre at Trinity College Dublin. Mitchel began his career on the stage in the 1940s, and went on to become a well-known figure in Irish theatre. He also appeared in several films, including "The Field" (1990), "Into the West" (1992), and "The Snapper" (1993). In addition to his acting career, Mitchel was also a director and a playwright, and wrote several plays that were produced in Ireland. He was known for his distinctive voice and his ability to bring a sense of realism to his performances. Mitchel passed away in Dublin in 1996, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland's most respected actors.

Despite his success on stage and screen, Charles Mitchel remained grounded and devoted to the Irish theatre scene throughout his career. He was a founding member of the Dublin Theatre Festival, and served as Artistic Director of the Lyric Players' Theatre in Belfast for several years. His roles in well-known plays such as "The Plough and the Stars" and "Juno and the Paycock" solidified his reputation as a talented actor, and he won critical acclaim for his portrayal of characters both comic and tragic. Mitchel was also a beloved figure in the Irish acting community, known for his kindness, humor, and generosity. His contributions to Irish theatre continue to be celebrated to this day.

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Jimmy McAlinden

Jimmy McAlinden (December 27, 1917 Belfast-November 1, 1993) was an Irish personality.

He was best known for his work as a footballer and a manager. McAlinden started his career with Belfast Celtic in 1936 and helped them win the Irish League title five times in a row. He was also a key member of the Northern Ireland national team that reached the quarter-finals of the 1958 World Cup. After retiring as a player, McAlinden became a manager and led Glentoran to three league titles and two Irish Cup wins. He later managed the Northern Ireland national team and worked as a television commentator. Outside of football, McAlinden was known for his charity work and was awarded an MBE for his services to sport and the community.

In addition to his stellar football career, Jimmy McAlinden was also a champion boxer in his youth. He won the Ulster Boys' Championship as a welterweight in 1934 and 1935. McAlinden's work in football earned him a place in the Irish Football Hall of Fame in 2014. He is remembered as one of the greatest players to come out of Northern Ireland and for his dedication to the sport both on and off the field. McAlinden's charitable work included raising funds for children with disabilities and he was a founding member of the Northern Ireland Spastics Association. His legacy continues to inspire young footballers in Northern Ireland to this day.

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Tommy Breen

Tommy Breen (April 27, 1912 Drogheda-March 1, 1988) was an Irish personality.

He is best known as a renowned Gaelic games administrator who made significant contributions to the development of Gaelic football and hurling in Ireland. Breen held numerous positions within the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), including serving as the Treasurer of the association for several years. He was also instrumental in establishing the All-Ireland Club Championship, which has become an important competition in Gaelic games. In addition to his contributions to the GAA, Breen also held various positions within the Irish government, including serving as a member of Seanad Éireann, the upper house of the Irish parliament. Outside of his work as a sports administrator and politician, Breen was a successful business owner, operating a supermarket in Dublin for many years. His contributions to Irish sport and society continue to be remembered and celebrated to this day.

Breen was born on April 27, 1912, in Drogheda, a town in County Louth, Ireland. He attended St. Mary's Diocesan School before joining the Irish Civil Service. His passion for Gaelic games led him to become involved in the Gaelic Athletic Association, where he quickly rose through the ranks.

In addition to his work with the GAA, Breen was also an accomplished athlete. He played football and hurling for his local club, St. Mary's, and was known for his skill and dedication on the field.

Throughout his life, Breen was a vocal advocate for the development of Gaelic games in Ireland. He believed that the GAA had the power to unite communities and promote Irish culture and heritage. As Treasurer of the association, he worked tirelessly to secure funding for new facilities, programs, and events.

Breen's contributions to Irish society were also recognized outside of the sports world. He was appointed to the Seanad Éireann in 1965, where he served as a senator until 1969. He was also a member of the Dublin Corporation, the city's governing body, for many years.

Despite his many accomplishments, Breen remained humble and dedicated to his community until his death on March 1, 1988. Today, he is remembered as a true legend of Irish sport and a tireless advocate for the development of Gaelic games.

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Pat Daly

Pat Daly (December 4, 1927 Dublin-January 1, 2003 Republic of Ireland) was an Irish personality.

He was best known for his work as a sports commentator and journalist. Daly began his career as a journalist in the 1950s, working for several Irish newspapers before becoming a sports commentator for RTÉ, the national broadcaster of Ireland. He covered numerous sports, including soccer, boxing, and horse racing, and was known for his colorful commentary style and quick wit. He also worked as a presenter on RTÉ's popular sports show "Sports Stadium" and was a regular contributor to several newspapers and magazines. Outside of his work in sports media, Daly was also involved in politics and served as a councillor for the Labour Party in Dublin. He was awarded an honorary doctorate in journalism from Dublin City University in 1999. Daly passed away on January 1, 2003, at the age of 75, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Irish sports media.

Daly's passion for sports journalism led him to cover some of the most iconic moments in Irish sporting history, such as Ireland's victory against England in the 1988 European Championships in Stuttgart, Germany. He also reported on the intense rivalry between boxer Barry McGuigan and Eusebio Pedroza, which took place in London in 1985.

In addition to his work with RTÉ, Daly was known for his philanthropy and community service. He was actively involved in promoting physical fitness and encouraging participation in sports among young people, serving as the president of the Irish Athletic Boxing Association and the Confederation of European Boxing.

Daly's contributions to Irish sports journalism were recognized posthumously when he was inducted into the Irish Sports Journalists Association Hall of Fame in 2004. His influence on Irish sports media continues to be felt, and he is remembered fondly as one of Ireland's most beloved sports journalists and personalities.

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Jackie Brown

Jackie Brown (November 8, 1914 Belfast-April 5, 1990) was an Irish personality.

She was primarily known as a radio and television presenter, and was a household name in Ireland during the 1950s and 1960s. Brown began her career as a typist for BBC Northern Ireland, but quickly rose to become a presenter.

One of her most popular shows was "Meet the People," which aired on BBC Northern Ireland and featured interviews with local personalities. Brown was known for her warm and friendly style, and her ability to put her guests at ease.

In addition to her radio and television work, Brown was also an accomplished actress, appearing in numerous stage productions throughout her career. She was also a prominent supporter of the arts, and was involved with a number of cultural organizations in Northern Ireland.

After her retirement from broadcasting in the 1970s, Brown remained active in the community, volunteering with various organizations and hosting events. She was widely revered for her contributions to Irish culture, and was posthumously inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 1994.

Brown's legacy lives on, with the Jackie Brown Suite in the Europa Hotel in Belfast named in her honour. She was also the inspiration for the character of the same name in Quentin Tarantino's 1997 film, "Jackie Brown," based on the novel “Rum Punch” by Elmore Leonard. In the film, Pam Grier played the titular character, an airline stewardess who gets caught up in a scheme to smuggle money. Despite her passing in 1990, Brown's impact on the entertainment industry in Ireland and beyond continues to this day.

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Sam Irving

Sam Irving (August 2, 1893 Belfast-December 12, 1968 Dundee) was an Irish personality.

He was known for his work as a comedian, actor, and writer during the early 20th century. Irving started his career in vaudeville and went on to perform in various theaters across Ireland and the United Kingdom. He gained popularity for his witty one-liners and impersonations, which earned him the nickname "The Irish Charlie Chaplin." In addition to his comedic work, Irving wrote several plays and sketches, some of which were performed on London's West End. In his later years, he appeared on British television programs, including the popular show "The Benny Hill Show." Irving's legacy as a pioneer of Irish comedy continues to influence the comedic landscape today.

During World War II, Sam Irving performed for the British troops, entertaining them with his jokes and impressions. He was praised for his efforts in boosting morale during the difficult times. Irving was also known for his philanthropic work, supporting various charities throughout his career. He was a founding member of the Variety Artistes' Federation, an organization dedicated to improving the lives of performers. After his death in 1968, a memorial fund was established in his name to support young comedians and performers. Today, Sam Irving is remembered as a trailblazer in the world of comedy, paving the way for future generations of Irish comedians. His contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated and appreciated by fans around the world.

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Charles Monck, 4th Viscount Monck

Charles Monck, 4th Viscount Monck (October 10, 1819 Templemore-November 29, 1894 Enniskerry) was an Irish personality.

He was a prominent politician who served as the last Governor-General of the Province of Canada and the first Governor-General of Canada following Confederation in 1867. During his tenure, he played a critical role in shaping the new country's constitutional framework and institutions, including the creation of the Supreme Court of Canada. Prior to his appointment as Governor-General, he served as the MP for Portsmouth and was a member of the House of Commons for nearly two decades. Monck was also a respected scholar and author, publishing several books on Irish history and literature. Despite his significant contributions to Canadian and Irish politics, his legacy is often overshadowed by his more flamboyant contemporaries.

In addition to his political and literary pursuits, Charles Monck was also a skilled amateur artist and musician. He inherited his interest in the arts from his mother, who was a pianist and music teacher. Monck maintained a lifelong interest in art and music, and was known for his paintings of Irish landscapes and portraits of family and friends. His love of music led him to become a founding member of the Ottawa Philharmonic Society, and he often performed as a soloist at their concerts. Monck was also a philanthropist and championed many charitable causes, particularly those related to education and healthcare. He played a key role in establishing the Queen's College in Kingston, Ontario (now known as Queen's University), and helped found the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. Despite his many accomplishments and contributions, Monck remained a humble and unassuming figure, earning him the respect and admiration of his contemporaries and historians alike.

John Howard Kyan

John Howard Kyan (November 27, 1774 Dublin-January 5, 1850 New York) was an Irish scientist.

Kyan is best known for his invention of the process of impregnating wood with corrosive sublimate, which made the wood resistant to rot and insect damage, and subsequently, widely used in building construction. He also developed a method to produce hydrochloric acid on an industrial scale. Kyan was awarded the Royal Society's gold medal and was made a fellow in recognition of his contributions to science. After emigrating to the United States in 1832, he continued to work on developing industrial processes and was instrumental in the establishment of the New York Institution for the Deaf and Dumb.

Kyan was born in Dublin and was the son of John Kyan, a successful merchant. He was educated privately and later went on to study chemistry and mineralogy with various chemists in Dublin. In 1796, he opened his own chemical manufacturing business in Dublin and later expanded his business to London. It was during this time that he developed the process of impregnating wood with corrosive sublimate, which revolutionized the field of building construction. The process was quickly adopted worldwide and is still used today. In addition to his success in the field of chemistry, Kyan was also a skilled artist and painter.

Later in life, Kyan became involved in civic and philanthropic causes. He was a member of several scientific societies and was actively involved in the establishment of the New York Institution for the Deaf and Dumb. He also served as a member of the New York State Assembly for one term. Kyan died in New York City in 1850 at the age of 75. Today, Kyan is widely recognized as one of the most important figures in the field of chemical technology and his contributions to science have benefited countless generations.

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Paul Boyton

Paul Boyton (June 29, 1848 Rathangan, County Kildare-April 19, 1924) was an Irish businessperson.

Paul Boyton was also an American adventurer, sailor and showman who gained fame for his daring and sometimes outrageous stunts. He is most famous for his "floating theater," a showboat that he converted into a mobile stage and toured around the world, performing daring aquatic feats and entertaining audiences with his larger-than-life personality. Boyton was also an innovator in the field of water safety, inventing several life-saving devices including the "Life Car," a rescue apparatus that was used to save the lives of hundreds of shipwrecked sailors. He was a true renaissance man, with interests ranging from acting to entrepreneurship, and he lived a life that was as entertaining as the shows he produced.

Boyton was born in Ireland and moved to the United States with his family at the age of three. He grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he learned to swim and became a skilled athlete. In the early 1870s, Boyton became interested in show business and began to develop his aquatic skills as part of his stage act. He performed daring stunts such as leaping from high diving boards and swimming through turbulent rapids, all with a theatrical flair that captivated audiences.

After several years of traveling and performing in the United States, Boyton set his sights on Europe, where he established himself as a premier aquatic entertainer. He toured the continent with his famous "floating theater," performing daring stunts in rivers and canals across Europe. Over the years, Boyton's show evolved to include elements of drama, comedy, and music, making him a true pioneer in the field of entertainment.

Despite his success as a showman, Boyton never lost sight of his passion for water safety. He invented several life-saving devices, including the "Life Car," which was used to rescue stranded sailors from shipwrecks. His innovative contributions to the field of water safety helped save countless lives, and his legacy endures to this day.

Paul Boyton died in 1924 at the age of 75, but his adventurous spirit and contributions to the world of entertainment and water safety continue to inspire people around the world.

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Constance Smith

Constance Smith (January 22, 1928 Limerick-June 30, 2003 Islington) also known as Connie or Smith was an Irish actor.

She began her career in acting in the late 1940s and appeared in several films including "Circle of Danger" and "The Battle of the River Plate." She gained international recognition for her role in the film "The Criminal" in 1960, which was directed by Joseph Losey.

Smith also had a successful career in theatre, starring in several productions including Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire" and the musical "Pal Joey."

Later in life, she became a Christian missionary and spent much of her time working in India and Africa. Smith also wrote a book about her experiences titled "One Hand to the Plow."

She died in 2003 at the age of 75 from cancer.

Throughout her career, Smith worked alongside several notable actors such as Richard Burton and Laurence Olivier. She was known for her captivating performances and her ability to bring depth to her characters. In addition to her work in theatre and film, she also had a successful career in television, appearing in several popular series including "The Avengers" and "The Saint."

Smith's work as a Christian missionary was a significant part of her life. In her travels, she worked to improve education and living conditions for children in poverty-stricken areas. She also founded a charity organization called "One Hand to the Plow" to continue her mission work. The organization is still active today, and it provides education and healthcare services in India and Africa.

Smith's contributions to the entertainment industry and her charitable work have left a lasting impact. She is remembered as a talented actor and a kind-hearted individual who dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of others.

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William O'Brien

William O'Brien (October 2, 1852 Mallow, County Cork-February 25, 1928) was an Irish journalist, politician and author.

He was best known for his role in the Irish Land War of the late 19th century, where he became a prominent leader within the Irish National Land League. O'Brien served as a member of Parliament for over 25 years, and during this time he became a leading advocate for Home Rule and Irish self-government. He was a prolific writer, with his work ranging from political treatises to poetry and drama. In addition to his political work, O'Brien was also a passionate social reformer and played a leading role in the creation of the Irish Cooperative Movement.

O'Brien's involvement in the Irish Land War saw him imprisoned multiple times, including a six-month sentence in 1881 for promoting boycotting landlords who refused to lower rents. He also supported the use of agrarian violence, once stating, "When a police barracks is burned down, it is not to promote robbery but simply to sanctify revenge."

In Parliament, O'Brien was a member of the Irish Parliamentary Party and worked closely with John Redmond to achieve Home Rule. His speeches in the House of Commons were known for their eloquence and wit.

O'Brien's writings included The Battle of Benburb, a play about an Irish victory over English forces in 1646, and A Queen of Men, a novel about a woman's struggle for independence in late 19th century Ireland. He also founded and edited the Irish People newspaper, which became a leading voice for Irish nationalism.

O'Brien's legacy as a social reformer is seen in his role in founding the Irish Agricultural Organisation Society, which aimed to promote cooperatives and improve the lives of Irish farmers. He also supported women's suffrage and workers' rights.

Today, O'Brien's contributions to Irish history and literature are celebrated, and he is remembered as a champion for Irish self-determination and social justice.

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Bernadette O'Farrell

Bernadette O'Farrell (January 30, 1924 Birr, County Offaly-September 26, 1999 Monaco) was an Irish actor.

Bernadette O'Farrell was best known for her work in theater productions, both in Ireland and internationally. She studied acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and went on to perform in numerous productions in Dublin's Abbey Theatre. She also acted in several iconic British TV series, including Doctor Who and The Avengers. O'Farrell appeared in a number of films throughout her career, including The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner and Zardoz. Despite her success, she was known for being very private and for shying away from the limelight.

Throughout her career, Bernadette O'Farrell worked with some of the most distinguished directors and actors of her time. She appeared in several productions directed by Samuel Beckett, including "Not I," "Footfall," and "Rockaby." She also worked with actors such as Richard Burton, Alec Guinness, and Peter O'Toole.

In addition to her work on stage and screen, O'Farrell was also a skilled voice actress. She provided the voice for several characters in the popular animated TV series, "Danger Mouse." In the early 1990s, she appeared in a number of episodes of the Irish soap opera, "Glenroe."

O'Farrell remained deeply connected to her Irish roots throughout her life, and was a strong supporter of the Irish language and culture. She was involved in establishing the Irish-language theater company, Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe, in Galway in 1928.

Despite her private nature, many of O'Farrell's colleagues and friends spoke highly of her talent and warmth. Irish actor Donal McCann described her as "a grand old lady of the Irish theater," while British director Anthony Harvey said she was "an actress of immense range and subtlety."

She died in cancer.

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Marie Kean

Marie Kean (June 27, 1918 Rush, Dublin-December 29, 1993 Donnybrook, Dublin) also known as Maire Kean was an Irish actor.

Kean started her acting career in the 1940s and gained popularity with her performances in numerous stage productions. Her most notable performances were in plays such as "Big Maggie," "The Hostage," and "Juno and the Paycock." In addition to her work on stage and in film, Kean also appeared on television, starring in series like "The Irish R.M." and "Strumpet City."

Kean's talent and dedication to her craft earned her numerous accolades throughout her career. She was awarded the Jacob's Award for her outstanding contributions to Irish theater in 1962 and again in 1978. She was also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Irish Theatre Awards in 1992.

Aside from her professional achievements, Kean was known for her warm personality and generous spirit. She was deeply committed to charitable causes, particularly those related to the welfare of children. After her death in 1993, the Marie Kean Foundation was established in her honor and continues to promote the arts and education in Ireland.

Marie Kean appeared in a number of successful films throughout her career, including the 1965 film "Darling Lili" and the 1975 film "Three Days of the Condor". She also worked extensively in theater, performing with the prestigious Abbey Theatre in Dublin and the Royal Shakespeare Company in London. Kean was a celebrated performer in both Ireland and the United Kingdom and was awarded an Honorary Degree by the National University of Ireland in 1985. She remained active in her profession until her death in 1993.

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Michael J. O'Doherty

Michael J. O'Doherty (July 30, 1874 Charlestown, County Mayo-October 13, 1949 Manila) also known as The Most Reverend Michael J. O'Doherty or Michael James O'Doherty was an Irish priest.

He was ordained as a priest in 1899 and served as a professor of philosophy and theology at St. Patrick's College in Carlow, Ireland. In 1915, he was appointed as the Archbishop of Manila in the Philippines, a position he held until his death in 1949. During his time in Manila, he established numerous schools and hospitals and played a significant role in the development of the Catholic Church in the Philippines. O'Doherty was also a vocal supporter of Irish independence and worked to support the cause while abroad. He was known for his advocacy for social justice and his work to improve the lives of the poor and marginalized.

As Archbishop of Manila, Michael J. O'Doherty oversaw the growth of the Catholic Church in the Philippines, which included the establishment of new parishes, the construction of churches, and the development of social programs. He was also instrumental in the formation and growth of the Catholic University of Santo Tomas, which became one of the top universities in the country under his leadership.

Aside from his religious and social work, O'Doherty was also a respected writer and scholar. He authored several books on philosophy and theology, as well as on Irish history and culture. His work as a writer and scholar earned him widespread praise and recognition both in Ireland and in the Philippines.

Despite his accomplishments, O'Doherty faced several challenges during his tenure as Archbishop of Manila. He had to contend with the effects of World War II in the Philippines, including the destruction of many of his schools and hospitals. He also faced criticism from some quarters for his vocal support of Irish independence, as well as for his outspoken views on social and political issues.

Despite these challenges, however, O'Doherty remained a beloved figure in the Philippines until his death in 1949. His contributions to the development of the country's Catholic Church and his advocacy for social justice continue to inspire and influence people to this day.

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Gene Fitzgerald

Gene Fitzgerald (August 21, 1932 Crookstown, County Cork-December 14, 2007 Cork) was an Irish personality.

He was best known for his work as a radio and TV presenter, as well as his prominent role in the Irish music scene throughout the 1960s and 70s. Fitzgerald had a long and successful career in broadcasting, working with several radio and television stations in Ireland. He was particularly noted for his knowledge of traditional Irish music and his support of emerging Irish artists.

Fitzgerald was also a talented musician in his own right, and played the button accordion. He was a founding member of the Cork Folk Club, which helped to showcase traditional Irish music and bring it to a wider audience. Throughout his career, Fitzgerald remained passionate about promoting Irish music and culture, and was widely admired for his contributions to the arts in Ireland.

Aside from his impressive career in broadcasting, Gene Fitzgerald also had an important role in Irish politics. He was a committed member of the Labour Party, and contested the 1969 general election in the Cork Mid constituency, though he was unsuccessful. Fitzgerald was also actively involved in campaigning for a number of social causes, including the fight against apartheid in South Africa. In addition to his work in media and politics, Fitzgerald had a successful career as a businessman, running his own traditional music shop in Cork for many years. He was a beloved figure in his local community, and was widely respected for his passion and his commitment to promoting Irish culture. After his death in 2007, Fitzgerald was remembered fondly by his colleagues and friends in the Irish music and broadcasting communities.

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D'Arcy Corrigan

D'Arcy Corrigan (January 2, 1870 County Cork-December 25, 1945 Los Angeles) was an Irish actor and lawyer.

He initially studied law and practised in Ireland before immigrating to the United States, where he pursued acting on stage and in films. Corrigan had a prolific career in Hollywood, appearing in over 200 films from the silent era to the 1940s. He became known for playing Irish stereotypes and villains in western films, and also played character roles in popular films such as "The Roaring Twenties" and "Gone with the Wind." Despite his success in acting, he never gave up his law practice and continued to practice law throughout his career. Corrigan was also active in the Irish-American community and helped to establish the Irish Film Society in Los Angeles.

In addition, D'Arcy Corrigan was a member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, an Irish-American fraternal organization, and was involved in various Irish cultural and political groups. He was also a founding member of the Players Club of Los Angeles, a group of actors and entertainers. Throughout his career, Corrigan worked with many of the top stars of the day, including Humphrey Bogart, James Cagney, and Bette Davis. He was known for his versatility as an actor, able to convincingly portray a wide range of characters. Corrigan continued acting up until his death in 1945, with his final film appearance being in the western "Sunset Pass". Today, his contribution to the film industry is celebrated at the Irish Film Institute in Dublin.

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John Brosnan

John Brosnan (July 1, 1846 Ireland-August 7, 1921 Brooklyn) was an Irish soldier.

During his early years, John Brosnan served in the British army in India during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He also fought in the Anglo-Zulu War in South Africa in 1879. In the late 1880s, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Brooklyn, where he worked as a laborer.

When the Spanish-American War broke out in 1898, Brosnan enlisted in the 13th Regiment, New York Volunteer Infantry. He and the regiment were quickly sent to Cuba, where they played a pivotal role in the Battle of El Caney. Brosnan was later honorably discharged and returned to Brooklyn, where he became an active member of the local chapter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Brosnan was also a prominent figure in the Irish-American community in Brooklyn, where he participated in the Irish nationalist movement and lobbied for Irish independence. In recognition of his service to his adopted country and unwavering commitment to the cause of Irish freedom, Brosnan was awarded the Cross of Military Valor by the Irish government.

In addition to his involvement in Irish politics, Brosnan was also a devout Catholic and a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was deeply committed to social justice causes and supported the labor movement in Brooklyn, often attending rallies and protests in support of workers' rights.

Despite his extensive military service, Brosnan never glorified war and was known for advocating for peace. He once stated, "I have seen too much of war to love it. My hope for the future is that my children and yours will never have to face the horrors of war."

Brosnan passed away on August 7, 1921 at the age of 75. He was buried with full military honors in Holy Cross Cemetery in Brooklyn. His legacy lives on as an example of a man committed to fighting for justice and freedom, both in his homeland and in his adopted country.

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