In their ambitious endeavour to present a comprehensive account of the Easter Week Insurrection, Messrs. Wells and Marlowe’s work aims to achieve two primary objectives: to provide an accurate portrayal of the rebellion’s significance within the context of the European War and to offer insight into the conflicting ideals shaping contemporary Ireland. While the authors demonstrate impartiality and conscientiousness in their chronicling of events, their aspiration for the book to serve as a standard record of this episode in Irish and European history faces inherent challenges.

The book’s merit lies in its sincere attempt to do justice to both sides of the conflict, given the limitations imposed by military censorship. However, it falls short of attaining the status of a definitive historical record due to the ongoing nature of the European War and the constraints placed on the dissemination of information. History, as written under the watchful eye of censorship, cannot claim absolute accuracy or comprehensiveness.

Several factual inaccuracies detract from the book’s credibility. The reference to rebels seizing a convent lacks specificity, while the Leitrim origin of MacDiarmada is erroneously attributed to Limerick. The mention of machine guns in the rebels’ possession is refuted by historical accounts, and the assertion regarding Casement’s mission to halt the rebellion remains a subject of debate. Furthermore, the claim that military prisoners were used to draw fire is disputed by testimonies from the Post Office.

Despite these discrepancies, the authors merit recognition for their overall fairness in presenting the complexities of the insurrection. They adeptly highlight the salient aspects of the situation and offer valuable insights for those interested in studying Irish history. Particularly commendable are the biographical sketches of the rebellion’s leaders, which reflect a broad and unbiased perspective.

In conclusion, “The Rising: An Account” represents a commendable effort to navigate the intricate terrain of Irish history amidst the tumult of war and political upheaval. While not without its flaws, the book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the events and personalities that shaped the Easter Week Insurrection, offering a nuanced perspective that encourages further exploration and analysis.

Irish Independent – Monday 04 December 1916