W.T. Cosgrave

William Thomas Cosgrave (Irish name Liam Tomás Mac Cosgair; June 6, 1880 – November 16, 1965), known generally as W.T. Cosgrave, was an Irish politician who succeeded Michael Collins as Chairman of the Irish Provisional Government from August to December 1922. He served as the first President of the Executive Council of the Irish Free State from 1922 to 1932.

Cosgrave in Opposition

Following the general election Cosgrave assumed the nominal role of Leader of the Opposition. Fianna Fáil were expected to have a short tenure in government, however, this turned out to be a sixteen year period of rule by the new party. In 1933 three groups, Cumann na nGaedhael, the national Centre Party and the National Guard came together to form a new political force, Fine Gael - the United Ireland Party. Cosgrave became the first parliamentary leader of the new party, serving until his retirement in 1944. During that period the new party failed to win a general election. Cosgrave retired as leader of the party and from politics in 1944.

Related Topics:
Leader of the Opposition - Fianna Fáil - 1933 - Cumann na nGaedhael - National Centre Party - National Guard - Fine Gael - the United Ireland Party - 1944

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