But my dear sir, the United Irishmen were primarily Protestants – their leaders were Protestants. Wolfe Tone and Napper Tandy were Protestants. The Emmets, the O'Connors, Simon Butler, Hamilton Rowan, Lord Edward Fitzgerald were Protestants. And the whole idea of the club was to unite Protestant and Catholic and Presbyterian Irishmen. The Protestants it was who took the initiative.
The excerpt highlights the significant role that Protestants played in the formation and leadership of the United Irishmen, a political organization aimed at promoting Irish unity. Notable figures like Wolfe Tone and Napper Tandy, who were instrumental in the movement, were Protestants. This reflects a broader intention to bridge divides among different Christian denominations in Ireland, including Catholics, Presbyterians, and Protestants. The club aimed for a collective identity among Irishmen regardless of their religious backgrounds.
Furthermore, the passage emphasizes that the initiative to unite and rally for common causes largely stemmed from the Protestant community. The involvement of various Protestant leaders shows a willingness to engage in dialogue and efforts toward unity, setting a precedent during that tumultuous period in Irish history. This recognition is essential in understanding the dynamics of Irish nationalism and the collaborative spirit that existed among different sects during the pursuit of a common goal.
