Republic of Connaught
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Republic of Connaught was an Irish break away state established with French military support during the Irish Rebellion of 1798 [1] There was little effective government, given the state's brief and troubled existence. Whether it was even recognised by France is unknown. Its borders changed rapidly before eventual defeat. Most of today's Connacht was under its realm at its height.
The republic was proclaimed following the victory of French and Irish forces at the Battle of Castlebar under the leadership of French General Humbert. The president of the Republic of Connaught was John Moore.
Although achieving a spectacular victory, the losses of the French and Irish were high, losing about 150 men, mostly to the cannonade at the start of the battle. The British suffered over 350 casualties of which about 80 were killed, the rest either wounded or captured, including perhaps 150 who joined the rebels. Following the victory, thousands of volunteers flocked to join the French who also sent a request to France for reinforcements.
Ultimately defeated by Cornwallis at the Battle of Ballinamuck the republic ceased to exist and the Kingdom of Ireland was absorbed into the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in 1801.
| Irish states in order of creation (1171–present) |
 |
|
Lordship of Ireland |
|
|
|
|
|
See also: |
