Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Mitchel, John

MITCHEL, JOHN, an Irish patriot; born the son of a Presbyterian minister, in Dungiven, County Derry, Ireland, Nov. 3, 1815. Soon after the formation of the Young Ireland party, and the starting of the “Nation,” in 1842, Mitchel began to contribute, and became assistant editor. In 1848 Mitchel started the “United Irishman.” For his violent articles he was tried on a charge of treason-felony and sentenced to 14 years' transportation. He was sent to Van Dieman's Land, whence he made his escape to the United States in 1853. Books were: “Life of Hugh O'Neill, Prince of Ulster” (1845); “History of Ireland from the Treaty of Limerick” (1868). In 1874 he returned unmolested to Ireland, and was elected to Parliament for Tipperary, but declared ineligible. Again elected, he died in Cork, Ireland, March 20, 1875.