Eamon de Valera
Eamon de Valera: A Life of Leadership and Vision
==============================================
Full Name and Common Aliases
Eamon de Valera was born on October 14, 1882, as Edward Patrick de Valera in New York City. He is commonly known as Éamon de Valera or simply "The Dev" to the Irish people.
Birth and Death Dates
-------------------------
Born: October 14, 1882, New York City, USA
Died: August 29, 1975, Dublin, Ireland
Nationality and Profession(s)
Irish national leader, politician, mathematician, writer, and lawyer. De Valera was a key figure in the struggle for Irish independence from Britain.
Early Life and Background
Eamon de Valera's early life was marked by tragedy and loss. His father died of tuberculosis when he was just two years old, leaving his mother to care for him and his siblings on her own. The family returned to Ireland when de Valera was seven years old, settling in the village of Bruree in County Limerick.
De Valera's academic abilities were evident from an early age. He attended Blackrock College in Dublin before winning a scholarship to study at University College Dublin (UCD). At UCD, he developed a keen interest in mathematics and philosophy, eventually graduating with a degree in mathematics.
Major Accomplishments
1916 Easter Rising: De Valera was one of the leaders of the Easter Rising, a rebellion against British rule in Ireland. Although the rising was ultimately unsuccessful, it marked a turning point in the fight for Irish independence.
President of Ireland (1945-1959): De Valera served two terms as President of Ireland, from 1945 to 1959. During his presidency, he played a key role in promoting Irish culture and language.
* Taoiseach (1951-1954, 1957-1959): De Valera also served as Taoiseach (Prime Minister) of Ireland on three separate occasions.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to his political career, de Valera was a talented mathematician and writer. He published several books on mathematics and philosophy, including "The Nation's Future" and " Ireland: A History in Photographs".
De Valera was also a vocal advocate for Irish language and culture. During his presidency, he worked tirelessly to promote the use of Irish as a primary language in education and government.
Impact and Legacy
Eamon de Valera's impact on Irish history cannot be overstated. He played a key role in securing Ireland's independence from Britain and went on to serve as President and Taoiseach of the newly independent state.
De Valera's legacy extends beyond politics, however. His commitment to promoting Irish language and culture has left a lasting impact on the country's identity and heritage.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Eamon de Valera is widely quoted and remembered for his leadership during Ireland's struggle for independence. His vision for an independent Ireland, where the Irish language and culture would thrive, continues to inspire people around the world today.
As a politician, writer, and mathematician, de Valera embodied the qualities of intellectual curiosity and passionate commitment to one's principles. His life serves as a testament to the power of determination and vision in shaping the course of history.
Quotes by Eamon de Valera
Eamon de Valera's insights on:
Unemployment is due to the large import of goods from Britain and other countries. The Government haven’t used the powers which they have for the benefit of the country.
Of course I wrote most of the Constitution myself. I remember hesitating for a long time over the US presidential system. But it wouldn’t have done – we were too trained in English democracy to sit down under a dictatorship which is what the American system really is.
We hope that the plain people – the labourers and small farmers – will take this opportunity of coming together and working out the National programme.
Partition is after all only an old fortress of crumbled masonry – held together with the plaster of fiction.
Mr. Churchill is proud of Britain’s stand alone, after France had fallen and before America entered the War.
Of course I wrote most of the Constitution myself. I remember hesitating for a long time over the US presidential system. But it wouldn't have done - we were too trained in English democracy to sit down under a dictatorship which is what the American system really is.
It is my considered opinion that in the fullness of time history will record the greatness of Michael Collins and it will be recorded at my expense.
