Harry Duggan (Irish republican)

Harry Duggan (1903-1976) was an Irish republican, best known for his involvement in the Irish Republican Army (IRA) during the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent decades. Born in County Dublin, Duggan joined the IRA in his youth and participated in various activities aimed at achieving Irish independence from British rule.

During the War of Independence (1919-1921), Duggan served in an active service unit, participating in ambushes and other engagements against British forces and the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC). Following the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921, he sided with the anti-Treaty IRA, which opposed the terms of the treaty and continued to fight for a fully independent Irish Republic.

In the Irish Civil War (1922-1923), Duggan fought against the pro-Treaty forces of the newly established Irish Free State. Following the defeat of the anti-Treaty side, he was imprisoned.

After his release, Duggan remained involved in republican activities. He played a role in reorganizing the IRA in the 1930s and was associated with various campaigns, including those during World War II. While the IRA officially remained neutral during the war, some members, including Duggan, sought alliances with Germany to obtain arms and support for their cause. This led to periods of imprisonment and internment.

After the Second World War, Duggan remained a prominent figure within the republican movement, advocating for Irish unity and opposing British rule in Northern Ireland. He maintained his commitment to republican ideals until his death in 1976. Although not as widely known as some other prominent figures of the era, Harry Duggan represents the enduring commitment of many individuals to Irish republicanism throughout a turbulent period in Irish history.