Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on January 27, 1944, Mairead Corrigan grew up in a poor family. She gained notoriety for her peace work during the Troubles, internationally known as the Northern Ireland Conflict. In reaction to the bloodshed in Northern Ireland, she and Betty Williams co-founded the Community of Peace People in 1976. Prior to her involvement in peace action, Corrigan held positions as a housewife and secretary in her early years. Maguire graduated from Trinity College Dublin's Irish School of Ecumenics. After Mairead’s sister three children were tragically murdered by an IRA member's getaway car, it led to her advocacy. She coordinated peace marches and demonstrations, urging both Catholics and Protestants to unite for peace and a stop to the bloodshed. Apart from her involvement with the Community of Peace People, Mairead Corrigan has taken part in several other campaigns and endeavors that have as their goal, the advancement of human rights and peace. Participating in global peace initiatives, Corrigan has voiced opposition to violence and conflict in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. She also participated in anti-nuclear activity, advocating against the development of nuclear weapons and their dissemination. In addition, Corrigan has made a strong case for gender equality and women's rights. She has spoken against discrimination and violence against women and girls based on their gender and has backed programs that empower them, especially in places devastated by conflict. In 2009, she took part in the Free Gaza Movement as well. Furthermore, Corrigan has engaged in environmental justice movements and humanitarian endeavors, tackling issues related to climate change, providing aid to refugees, and championing the rights of underprivileged and susceptible groups. Maguire is a vocal opponent of American and British involvement in the Middle East, especially in Afghanistan and Iraq. likewise she has publicly criticized the leadership of US President Barack Obama. Her involvement in American activism has periodically landed her in legal hot water; during an anti-Iraq War demonstration in New York City, she was twice arrested outside the UN building. Corrigan's activism is noteworthy, as she has been involved in peace movements throughout her whole life. Currently, Corrigan serves as a councilor for the International Peace Council in addition to working with numerous interchurch and interfaith organizations. She also serves as a patron of the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education and the Methodist Theological College. Corrigan remained active in humanitarian endeavors and peacebuilding throughout her life, receiving numerous accolades and prizes for her commitment to resolving conflicts and promoting peace. Along with Betty Williams, Corrigan received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1976.

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