# Patrick Hillery

> 6th president of Ireland (1923–2008)

**Wikidata**: [Q310994](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q310994)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Hillery)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/patrick-hillery

## Summary
Patrick Hillery was the sixth president of Ireland, serving from 1976 to 1990. A physician and diplomat, he played a key role in Ireland's transition from the Irish Free State to a modern republic and was instrumental in shaping the country's political and diplomatic landscape.

## Biography
- Born: May 2, 1923
- Nationality: Irish
- Education: University College Dublin (medical degree)
- Known for: Leading Ireland through a period of political and economic transformation
- Employer(s): University College Dublin, diplomatic service
- Field(s): Medicine, politics, diplomacy

## Contributions
- Served as the sixth president of Ireland from 1976 to 1990, overseeing significant political and economic changes.
- Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the modern Irish state, succeeding the Irish Free State in 1937.
- Advocated for Ireland's neutrality and diplomatic engagement with international organizations.
- Led Ireland through the 1980s, a period marked by economic challenges and political reforms.

## FAQs
**What was Patrick Hillery's profession?**
Patrick Hillery was a physician and diplomat, holding key political roles in Ireland.

**Where did Patrick Hillery work?**
He worked at University College Dublin and served in the Irish diplomatic service.

**What was Patrick Hillery's political role?**
He was the sixth president of Ireland, serving from 1976 to 1990.

**What awards did Patrick Hillery receive?**
He received the Order of Pius IX and the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour.

**What was Patrick Hillery's educational background?**
He earned a medical degree from University College Dublin.

## Why They Matter
Patrick Hillery was a pivotal figure in Ireland's political history, guiding the country through a transformative period. His leadership during the 1980s helped stabilize Ireland's economy and strengthen its diplomatic standing. His work laid the foundation for modern Ireland, ensuring its place as a sovereign and neutral state in the European context.

## Notable For
- Sixth president of Ireland (1976–1990)
- Physician and diplomat
- Key figure in Ireland's transition from the Irish Free State to a republic
- Recipient of the Order of Pius IX and the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour
- Advocate for Ireland's neutrality and international engagement

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Patrick Hillery was born on May 2, 1923. He earned a medical degree from University College Dublin, establishing his career as a physician.

### Political Career
Hillery entered politics and diplomacy, serving in the Irish diplomatic service. He was elected the sixth president of Ireland in 1976, succeeding Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh.

### Presidency
During his presidency, Hillery oversaw Ireland's transition from the Irish Free State to a fully independent republic. He played a crucial role in shaping Ireland's political and diplomatic relations, advocating for neutrality and engagement with international organizations.

### Awards and Recognition
Hillery received the Order of Pius IX and the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour for his contributions to medicine and diplomacy.

### Legacy
Patrick Hillery's presidency marked a significant period in Ireland's history, ensuring the country's stability and influence on the global stage. His work remains a cornerstone of modern Irish governance.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. [Source](https://www.oireachtas.ie/en/members/member/Patrick-John-Hillery.D.1951-06-13)
3. International Standard Name Identifier
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. CiNii Research
6. SNAC
7. Find a Grave
8. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
9. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
10. Proleksis Encyclopedia
11. Munzinger Personen
12. [A look at Patrick Hillery's career in politics. RTÉ News and Current Affairs. 2008](http://www.rte.ie/news/2008/0412/hilleryp.html)
13. BnF authorities
14. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
15. Library of Congress Control Number