Irish republican activist who participated in the 1981 hunger strike in Maze Prison, protesting British rule in Northern Ireland. He was the ninth and final hunger striker to die.
Michael Devine, also known as "Red Mickey" due to his fiery locks, is remembered as the last of the ten hunger strikers to die in the 1981 Irish hunger strike, a pivotal event in modern Irish history. As a volunteer in the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA), Devine's unwavering dedication to the cause of Irish independence led him to sacrifice his life in the pursuit of freedom and equality.
Born on May 26, 1954, in Derry, Northern Ireland, Devine grew up in a family that valued education and community. His family moved to the Creggan estate when he was just six years old, where he attended Holy Child Primary School and St. Joseph's Secondary School. The events of Bloody Sunday in 1972 had a profound impact on Devine, shaping his political ideology and fueling his desire to fight for Irish independence.
In 1974, Devine co-founded the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA), a paramilitary organization committed to ending British rule in Northern Ireland. His involvement in the organization led to his arrest in 1976, following an arms raid in County Donegal. Devine was sentenced to 12 years in prison, where he joined the blanket protest and eventually the hunger strike.
On June 22, 1981, Devine embarked on the 1981 hunger strike at the Maze Prison, alongside other INLA prisoners. As the Officer Commanding of the INLA prisoners, Devine's leadership and determination inspired his fellow strikers. His 60-day hunger strike ultimately ended in tragedy on August 20, 1981, when he became the tenth and final hunger striker to die.
Michael Devine's sacrifice has left an indelible mark on Irish history. His unwavering commitment to the cause of Irish independence has inspired generations of Irish republicans and nationalists. Today, Devine is remembered as a martyr and a hero, his name etched alongside those of his fellow hunger strikers in the annals of Irish history.
"I'll die for my country, but I won't betray my countrymen."
Though his life was cut short, Michael Devine's legacy continues to inspire and motivate those fighting for freedom and equality. His unwavering dedication to the cause of Irish independence serves as a beacon of hope for generations to come.
72 Years Old
Irish republican politician and Provisional IRA volunteer who led a hunger strike in prison, sparking international attention and sympathy for the Irish republican cause.
70 Years Old
An Irish republican who participated in the 1981 hunger strike in Maze Prison, protesting British rule in Northern Ireland, and sacrificed his life after 59 days without food. 18
69 Years Old
An Irish republican activist who participated in the 1981 Irish hunger strike, a pivotal event in the Northern Ireland conflict. He sacrificed his life for the cause, becoming a martyr and symbol of resistance.
68 Years Old
Irish republican activist who led a 61-day hunger strike in 1981 to protest British rule in Northern Ireland, ultimately sacrificing his life for the cause.
74 Years Old
A Northern Irish republican who participated in the 1981 Irish hunger strike, refusing food for 61 days to protest British rule and prison conditions. He is remembered for his sacrifice and defiance in the face of oppression.
69 Years Old
An Irish republican who participated in the 1981 hunger strike in Maze Prison, protesting for political status and ultimately sacrificing his life after 46 days without food.
69 Years Old
Irish republican militant who fought in the Irish War of Independence and was a key figure in the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations. He's known for his role in shaping Ireland's early years of independence.
68 Years Old
Irish republican and hunger striker who fought for independence from British rule, ultimately sacrificing his life in a 62-day hunger strike in 1981.
