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Career / Role in the 1916 Rising
Molly O'Reilly played a significant role in the Irish 1916 Rising, contributing her efforts and dedication to the cause of Irish independence. O’Reilly was born in 1881, she was a prominent member of the Irish Citizen Army (ICA), led by James Connolly, a socialist and republican group. The ICA was founded in response to the severe conditions faced by Dublin's middle class. When Molly O’Reilly was 14 years of age, she was asked by James Connolly to raise the flag of the ICA over Liberty Hall a week before the Rising began.

During the 1916 Rising, Molly O'Reilly’s role was crucial, she served as a dispatcher and courier, carrying messages and vital information between different rebel outposts. O'Reilly's commitment to the rising was rooted in her belief in social justice and the rights of the Irish people to determine their own fate. After 1916, O’Reilly also spied for Michael Collins and in 1923, she was involved in the first female hunger strike. As a member of the ICA, O'Reilly participated in seizing St. Stephen's Green, where she and the other members held their ground against British forces. The rebellion fought for independence from British rule, in spite of the challenges faced by the rebels, Molly O'Reilly was resilient and determined which was shown when they looked to break free from British dominance.

After the failure of the Easter Rising and then the execution of its leaders, including James Connolly, O'Reilly continued her involvement in the fight for Irish independence. She stayed dedicated to the cause and in 1922, she witnessed the establishment of the Irish Free State.

Molly O'Reilly's role in the 1916 Rising illustrates the various contributions made by people from many backgrounds who came together with the same goal — the pursuit of Irish independence. Molly O’Reilly is remembered as part of Ireland's fight for freedom from British Rule during an important moment in Irish history.