Tom Clarke was the architect of the 1916 Rising - the old Fenian surrounded by a young generation of republicans whom he galvanised towards one of the most important events in Irish history. However, relatively little is known of this apparently quiet and unassuming man.Clarke is here brought to life through the letters he wrote to family and friends over a seventeen- year period. A complete context for the correspondence is presented here, with a biography containing much new information on Clarke's early days, particularly the fifteen years he spent in English prisons.

His romance with, and subsequent marriage to Katty Daly, their life in America and the decision to return to Ireland are all detailed. The political correspondence begins in 1899 and terminates with a short note written hours before his execution on 3 May 1916. The letters contained in this book enable the reader to view Clarke as he was - in his own words.