User:Eolais/Drafts/History of Fine Gael

This article on the history of Fine Gael covers the party's foundation in 1933 and how it evolved to become the dominant political force in Ireland along with Fianna Fáil throughout the 20th century and still today in the 21st century. Fine Gael has origins in Cumann na nGaedheal, the National Centre Party and National Guard, commonly known as the "Blueshirts". The party was founded under a variety of principles and has evolved greatly since its inception under its original leader Eoin O'Duffy. It, along with Fianna Fail, are the only two parties to date to form a government in the Republic of Ireland. Both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have origins in the Irish Civil War, with Fianna Fail being founded by the Anti-Treaty leader, Éamon de Valera; with the founders of Fine Gael originating from the Pro-Treaty side.