The Easter Rising of 1916 was a major turning point in Irish history. Peopled by patriots and poets, fueled by a desperate desire for freedom, and played out in the historic streets of Dublin against the background of World War I, the rebellion is a story of tremendous power and unique poignancy. 1916 is the story of the valiant men and women who, for a few desperate days, fought against all odds to realize an impossible dream: to give Ireland back to the Irish.