The history of the GAA can be traced back more than 135 years. It was founded by a group of passionate Irishmen who wanted to promote the nation's nique games and athletic pastimes.
Founding members of the GAA were Michael Cusack, Maurice Davin, Joseph K. Bracken, Thomas St George McCarthy, P. J. Ryan of Tipperary, John Wyse Power and John McKay.
Charles Stewart Parnell and Michael Davitt were asked to become patrons of the GAA along with Archbishop Thomas Croke, after whom the top GAA venue Croke Park is named.