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Terence MacManus (1811-1861) was an Irish nationalist and a key figure in the struggle for Irish independence during the 19th century.
Sentenced to death for treason, he and several other participants were given commuted sentences in 1849 and transported for life to Van Diemen’s Land in Australia. Three years later in 1852, MacManus escaped and emigrated to the United States.
He lived in San Francisco, California until his death in 1861.
Failing to re-establish his career as a shipping agent, MacManus died in poverty around the age of 50.
His body was returned to Dublin for burial, where the Fenians gave him a large funeral in honor of his part in the rebellion where thousands turned out to view his coffin in Dublin.
He was laid to rest in the Fenian Plot in Glasnevin Cemetery, Dublin, on 10th of November 1861. Fenians organized a huge funeral and nationalist demonstration to honor MacManus.
MacManus was notable for his statement in court in 1848; he explained his actions by saying:
“…[I]t was not because I loved England less, but because I loved Ireland more.”
Early Life: Terence MacManus was born in County Fermanagh, Ireland, in 1811. He grew up in a time when Ireland was under British rule, and many Irish people sought greater autonomy and independence.
Young Ireland Movement: MacManus became involved in the Young Ireland movement, a group of Irish nationalists who advocated for constitutional reform and Irish self-governance. He was a close associate of other Young Ireland leaders, including Thomas Davis and John Mitchel.
Role in the 1848 Rebellion: In 1848, MacManus was one of the leaders of the failed Irish rebellion against British rule. He was involved in planning and organizing the uprising, which aimed to establish an independent Irish republic. The rebellion was quickly suppressed, and MacManus was arrested.
Trial and Exile: Terence MacManus, along with other Young Ireland leaders, was put on trial for his involvement in the 1848 rebellion. He was convicted of high treason but his death sentence was commuted to transportation for life. He was transported to Australia, where he spent several years in exile.
Pardon and Return: In 1854, MacManus received a pardon and was allowed to return to Ireland. Although the Young Ireland movement had largely waned by this time, MacManus continued to be involved in nationalist activities and worked as a journalist.
Death: Terence MacManus died in 1861 at the age of 50. His legacy as a Young Ireland leader and his dedication to the cause of Irish independence are remembered in Irish history.