Pat McGeown

Pat McGeown

Pat McGeown (1956 – 1 October 1996) was an Irish republican and a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA). He was known for his involvement in the 1981 Irish hunger strike and his subsequent political activities.

Early Life

Pat McGeown was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, in 1956. He grew up in a period of significant political and social turmoil, which influenced his later involvement in the republican movement.

Involvement in the IRA

McGeown joined the Provisional Irish Republican Army in the early 1970s. He was actively involved in the armed struggle against British rule in Northern Ireland. His activities led to his arrest and imprisonment on several occasions.

1981 Hunger Strike

Pat McGeown was one of the participants in the 1981 Irish hunger strike, a protest by Irish republican prisoners in the Maze Prison (also known as Long Kesh) against the British government's refusal to grant them political status. Although McGeown did not die during the hunger strike, he suffered severe health consequences that affected him for the rest of his life.

Political Activities

After his release from prison, McGeown became involved in the political wing of the republican movement. He was a member of Sinn Féin, the political party associated with the IRA. He worked to promote the party's agenda and was involved in various community initiatives in Belfast.

Death

Pat McGeown died on 1 October 1996, at the age of 40. His death was attributed to the long-term effects of the hunger strike and his imprisonment. He is remembered as a dedicated republican who made significant sacrifices for his beliefs.

Legacy

McGeown's legacy is remembered within the republican community in Northern Ireland. His life and actions are often cited as examples of the sacrifices made by those involved in the struggle for Irish independence.

See Also

• Provisional Irish Republican Army
• 1981 Irish hunger strike
• Sinn Féin
• Maze Prison