Anne Marreco (1912–1982)

This is a very well researched and comprehensive account of the life of Constance Markievicz and her journey to and involvement in Ireland's resistance including her founding of Fianna Éireann. In 1911, the Countess was jailed for the first time for her part in the demonstrations that took place against the visit of George V. She played an active role in the Easter Rising in 1916. She was imprisoned and describes her experiences of solitary confinement. She was sentenced to death; however her sentence was subsequently commuted to life in prison on account of the fact that she was female. She was released from prison in 1917, but was jailed again in 1918 for her part in anti-conscription activities. While in prison she was elected an MP standing as a Sinn Fein candidate. The Countess refused to take up her seat as it would have involved swearing an oath of allegiance to the king. After the civil war in Ireland, she toured America. She was also re-elected to the Dáil but her staunch republican views led her to being sent to jail again. In 1926, the Countess joined Fianna Fáil and she died in 1927. This is a fascinating account of a fearless revolutionary and is highly recommended.… (meer)