The Easter Rising occurred in Dublin during a period of heightened nationalist sentiment in Ireland, rooted in centuries of British rule. Tensions were exacerbated by socio-economic issues and the impact of the First World War, which diverted British military resources. The rising was organized by various nationalist groups, including the Irish Republican Brotherhood, and saw influential leaders such as Patrick Pearse, James Connolly, and Tom Clarke rallying support. On April 24, 1916, a small band of rebels seized key locations throughout Dublin, with the General Post Office being transformed into their headquarters. Here, Patrick Pearse read the Proclamation of the Irish Republic to the public, declaring Ireland a sovereign nation and instilling a sense of national pride among the populace.

The rebellion lasted for six days, during which fighting broke out in various parts of the city. The rebels faced fierce opposition from British forces, leading to significant casualties and destruction, especially in urban areas. In the aftermath, the British government took swift action to quash the insurrection. While the uprising was ultimately unsuccessful, it galvanized the Irish nationalist movement and led to more widespread support for independence. The leaders' executions in the weeks following the rising ignited public sympathy, transforming the perception of the rebels from traitors to martyrs.