Organizations  --  Clan na Gael  Part 4  "The Easter Rebellion" When Arthur Griffith first formulated his plan of an armed uprising in Ireland, a few smaller rebel groups threw in their support.  But Griffith and his compatriots were pleasantly surprised when Devoy and Clan na Gael offered their full and unwavering support.  Devoy, already in his seventies, was ready to assume any duty necessary for the fulfillment his lifelong dream. Clan na Gael went on a full fundraising effort around the United States.  It's unknown exactly how much money Clan na Gael raised for the Easter Rebellion, but it is agreed they were the biggest financial supporter.  The arms and ammunition used came directly from Clan na Gael and the Irish-American public. What was Devoy's role in the Rebellion?  A very important one.  It had been determined that Ireland's best chance at success was to have help from Germany.  Germany and the United Kingdom were at war, and it would be beneficial to Germany to have her enemy contend with an armed uprising.  The Fenians in Ireland wanted arms, ammunition and possibly troops from Germany.  Since there could be no communication between Dublin and Berlin, the Fenians turned to the man they trusted most - John Devoy in New York City. Dispatches were sent by emissaries from Dublin to New York City.  From his Clan na Gael office, Devoy would then send the messages to the German Foreign Office in Berlin.  At this time, America had declared neutrality, and Devoy was treading in dangerous waters.   In February 1916, Devoy sent a message to Berlin:  "Unanimous opinion is that action cannot be postponed much longer.  It has therefore been decided to begin action on Easter Saturday.  Unless entirely new circumstances arise you must have your arms and ammunition landed between Good Friday and Easter Saturday.  Expect German help immediately after." Berlin replied by cable to Devoy that between April 20th and 23rd, 20,000 rifles, ten machine guns and ammunition would be landed in Tralee Bay.  Devoy continued to send urgent messages from March 18th through 20th, asking for Easter Sunday to be the new date of arms delivery.  He then asked Berlin to land a submarine in Dublin Harbor, and possibly troops!  Berlin's answer: "Sending German submarines to Dublin Harbour impossible.  Landing troops equally out of the question." Devoy's role was a vital one.  However, problems and controversy would arise, with fingers pointing at Devoy. NEXT: The "Aud" Fiasco