Willie Pearse was an Irish artist, political activist, and Easter Rising martyr who fought for Irish independence. Born in Dublin in 1891, he was the younger brother of Patrick Pearse, one of the leaders of the Easter Rising.

During the Easter Rising of 1916, Willie fought alongside his brother in the General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin. The Pearse brothers held out in the GPO for a week, before the building was destroyed by British forces. They then made their escape down Moore Street, where they were eventually surrendered to British forces.

Willie was the only one among the Easter Rising leaders to plead guilty the day of his trial. Despite his mother’s plea to spare his life, he was court-martialed and sentenced to death. He was executed by firing squad on May 4, 1916, at Kilmainham Gaol.

Willie Pearse’s life and legacy as an artist and political activist continue to inspire generations of Irish people. As a martyr of the Easter Rising, he remains an important symbol of Irish resistance against British rule and the fight for Irish independence.

His art also lives on, with several of his works displayed in museums and galleries across Ireland. Willie Pearse’s contribution to Irish culture and nationalism is a reminder of the important role that art and creativity can play in political activism and social change.