The Provisional Government of the Irish Republic was established during the Easter Rising in April 1916. It was formed by a group of Irish nationalists who sought to end British rule in Ireland and establish an independent republic. The government issued a proclamation declaring the establishment of the Irish Republic, which was intended to represent the will of the Irish people. The Provisional Government was short-lived, as the rising was suppressed by British forces within a week. Key figures involved included Patrick Pearse and James Connolly, who played significant roles in the uprising. Despite its failure, the Provisional Government inspired future movements for Irish independence.