The Rest Is History: Episode 581 – The Irish Civil War: The Killing of Michael Collins (Part 2)

Host: Dominic Sandbrook
Guest: Ronan McGreevey, Distinguished Journalist for the Irish Times
Release Date: July 9, 2025

Introduction to the Episode's Focus

In Episode 581 of The Rest Is History, hosts Dominic Sandbrook and Tom Holland delve deep into one of Ireland's most pivotal and tragic moments: the assassination of Michael Collins during the Irish Civil War. Joined by Ronan McGreevey, a respected journalist and author, the discussion unpacks the complexities, events, and enduring legacy of Collins' death and its impact on Ireland's path to independence.

Historical Context: The Irish Civil War

The episode begins with an overview of the Irish Civil War, a conflict that erupted in the aftermath of the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921. The treaty, which ended the War of Independence, divided Irish nationalists into pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty factions, leading to a bitter and violent struggle for the future direction of the newly formed Irish Free State.

Dominic Sandbrook [00:02:14]:
"Michael Collins, surely the most charismatic of all Ireland's independence heroes, was shot dead by his former comrades at a crossroads near Bayle Nablaw in rural County Cork."

Ronan McGreevey emphasizes the significance of this event, highlighting how it marked a turning point in Irish history, symbolizing the internal strife that followed the fight against British rule.

Events Leading to Michael Collins' Death

The conversation transitions to the events leading up to Collins' assassination. In early August 1922, Collins returned to his home county of Cork to inspect the national army's efforts to quell the anti-Treaty IRA forces occupying the Four Courts in Dublin.

Dominic Sandbrook [00:04:41]:
"There's been a huge split over the Anglo Irish Treaty, a split both in the Irish Nationalist elite and in the Irish Republican army."

Ronan elucidates the precarious situation of the Provisional Government, which, despite initial manpower advantages, faced significant challenges in maintaining control amidst widespread dissent and external pressures from the British government.

The Day of the Assassination (22 August 1922)

On August 22, 1922, Michael Collins embarked on a day-long journey through Cork, aiming to rally support and secure resources for the struggling Free State forces. Accompanied by a large escort, Collins visited key locations, including the Imperial Hotel and various command centers.

Ronan McGreevey [00:22:42]:
"He's up at 6:30 in the morning, they leave the Imperial Hotel in Cork, and it's a very big contingent."

The day culminated at Sam's Cross, where Collins was enjoying drinks with his brother Johnny. It was here that anti-Treaty forces, having meticulously planned an ambush, laid in wait. Despite warnings and the presence of trained marksmen, Collins exited his car and engaged in a brief firefight, resulting in his fatal injury.

Dominic Sandbrook [00:27:15]:
"There's only one fatality in this incident. That's Michael Collins. He's shot through the head."

Theories Surrounding Collins' Death

The discussion explores various theories surrounding the assassination, including suspicions of betrayal within Collins' ranks and possible British involvement. While some argue that Collins may have been betrayed by his own side, others, like Paddy Colavan, suggest that top British officials may have orchestrated the killing.

Ronan McGreevey [00:27:15]:
"I believe that he was shot by the anti-Treaty side. It was a terrible tragedy."

However, despite numerous speculations and investigations, the exact circumstances and responsible parties behind Collins' death remain a subject of historical debate.

Impact of Collins' Death on Irish History

Michael Collins' untimely death left a significant void in the leadership of the Free State. At just 31 years old, Collins was a dynamic and pragmatic leader whose influence was pivotal in both military and political spheres.

Ronan McGreevey [00:30:13]:
"The history of Ireland would have been different had he lived. I feel that he's a much more dynamic, practical minded person than very able."

Collins' absence likely altered the trajectory of Ireland's political development, potentially preventing some of the compromises and conflicts that followed during the establishment of the Irish Free State.

Brutality of the Civil War and Aftermath

The episode doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the Irish Civil War. Both sides committed brutal acts, including summary executions and sectarian violence, which left deep scars on the Irish society.

Dominic Sandbrook [00:32:25]:
"The Civil War doesn't end there. The anti-Treatyites think, well, we can now just revert to a guerrilla campaign."

Ronan discusses the ferocity of the conflict, noting that while the death toll was relatively lower compared to other contemporary civil wars, the intensity and personal nature of the violence had lasting repercussions.

Legacy of the Irish Civil War

Despite the immediate devastation, the Civil War's legacy in Ireland is complex. Ronan McGreevey points out that the Free State's ability to institute a stable government and a civic police force (the Garda) laid the foundation for Ireland's future stability and democratic governance.

Dominic Sandbrook [00:37:21]:
"The most important legacy that the Civil War left is that the state would never be challenged in the same way again."

Moreover, the unresolved issues surrounding partition continued to influence Irish politics, contributing to future conflicts such as the Troubles in the late 20th century.

Reflection on Leadership and Historical Memory

Ronan McGreevey reflects on the "great man" theory of history, pondering how Collins' early death may have altered Ireland's development. He suggests that Collins' practical skills and leadership could have steered Ireland away from some of the internal conflicts and towards greater economic development.

Ronan McGreevey [00:31:25]:
"He is a much more dynamic, practical minded person than very able."

The episode concludes by acknowledging how the memories of the Civil War and figures like Collins continue to shape Irish identity and politics today.

Conclusion

Episode 581 of The Rest Is History provides a comprehensive and nuanced exploration of the Irish Civil War and the assassination of Michael Collins. Through engaging storytelling and expert analysis, Dominic Sandbrook, Tom Holland, and guest Ronan McGreevey offer listeners a deep understanding of this tumultuous period in Irish history, its immediate consequences, and its enduring legacy.

Notable Quotes:

• Ronan McGreevey [00:22:42]:
  "He's up at 6:30 in the morning, they leave the Imperial Hotel in Cork, and it's a very big contingent."

• Dominic Sandbrook [00:27:15]:
  "There's only one fatality in this incident. That's Michael Collins. He's shot through the head."

• Ronan McGreevey [00:30:13]:
  "The history of Ireland would have been different had he lived. I feel that he's a much more dynamic, practical minded person than very able."

• Dominic Sandbrook [00:37:21]:
  "The most important legacy that the Civil War left is that the state would never be challenged in the same way again."

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