Colour photograph of Eamon de Valera in America, after he escaped from Kilmainham Gaol in the aftermath of the Easter Rising

This colour photograph was taken during Éamon de Valera’s 18-month trip to the United States which began in June 1919. He wanted official recognition of the Republic. He also hoped to dissuade the US Government from supporting British objectives in Ireland, and to raise much needed funds.

Failing on the first two counts, the trip was a success in financial terms, raising close to $6 million for the cause. But de Valera was no schmoozer: during the trip he fell out with prominent Irish-Americans John Devoy and Judge Daniel Cohalan.

With thanks to Will de Burca.

Listen to de Valera speaking at Kilmainham Goal: