O'Brien
WILLIAM, Irish journalist and politician; born in 1852; educated at Cloyne College and Queen's College, Cork. In 1875 joined staff of "Freeman's Journal," and founded "United Ireland" 1880. Prosecuted nine times for political offenses, he spent over two years in prison. Nationals' parliamentary leader 1883-1895, retiring because of party dissensions. Toured the United States in 1890, collecting funds for Irish cause.
Led Anti-Parnellites after leader's conviction. 1898 organized an agrarian movement, United Irish League, and founded "The Irish People" as its organ.
Member of Parliament for Cork, 1900- 1909. Has published "When We Were Boys" (1890); "Irish Idea" (1894); "A Queen of Men" (1897); "Recollections" (1906); "An Olive Branch" (1910).