Where oh where is our James Connolly? Inside the new documentary
A new documentary, 'We Only Want the Earth', examines the life and revolutionary ideas of Irish socialist leader James Connolly. The film aims to connect his historical activism in the labour movement to contemporary issues of inequality.
Why it matters
It highlights the enduring relevance of historical political figures in modern discourse regarding labour rights and national identity.
Former trade union leader and politician Des Geraghty introduces We Only Want the Earth - The Life and Ideas of James Connolly , a new documentary portrait of the legendary socialist and revolutionary leader, receiving its premiere on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player on Wednesday 26 August.
The name of James Connolly has a very special place in the hearts and minds of most Irish people over the generations. Most would remember him for his leadership role in the 1916 Rebellion and his execution, by a British firing squad in Kilmainham Jail, on the 12th of May, 1916.
What is often less remembered is that prior to his execution Connolly led an extraordinary life of activism for the labour movement in the UK, USA and Ireland. His wrote many important books and pamphlets and hundreds of articles, songs and speeches.
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