Assassination of Michael Collins: A Revival in Gaelic Nationalism

Abstract

This paper examines the link between the assassination of Michael Collins, the leader of the Irish Republican Army and then the National Army, and the rise in Gaelic Nationalism across Ireland after his death. Ireland struggled to gain independence from England throughout history because England controlled all aspects of Irish life. It was not until 1916, during the Easter Rising, that Collins started to play a key role in Ireland’s mission to gain independence. As a result, Collins became a symbol of hope for Ireland’s nationalism. On August 22, 1922, Michael Collins was assassinated and became a martyr for Ireland. For many years to come, Irish nationalists celebrated Collins with the highest honors for the important role he played in achieving Ireland’s nationalism and independence. He was celebrated in art, politics, music, poetry, film, and national monuments.