Michael Collins: The Squad and Ireland's Fight for Freedom

When we think of courageous individuals who have dedicated their lives to fighting for freedom, one name that often comes to mind is Michael Collins. Born on October 16, 1890, in Clonakilty, County Cork, Collins played a significant role in Ireland's struggle for independence.

The Early Years

Although Michael Collins grew up in a humble background, he possessed an unwavering determination and a burning desire for Ireland's independence. As a young man, he joined the Gaelic League and immersed himself in Irish culture and language.

The Twelve Apostles: Michael Collins, the Squad, and Ireland's Fight for Freedom

by Tim Pat Coogan (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7304 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Collins' involvement in revolutionary activities commenced during the Easter Rising in 1916, where he fought alongside prominent leaders such as Patrick Pearse and James Connolly. This event marked a turning point in Collins' life, propelling him to become one of the key figures in the Irish struggle for freedom.

The Formation of The Squad

In response to the escalating violence and oppression faced by the Irish people, Collins founded a clandestine group known as "The Squad" in 1919. The Squad was an elite unit tasked with assassinating British intelligence agents and members of the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC).

The members of The Squad were carefully selected for their skill, bravery, and loyalty to the cause. Their covert operations struck fear into the hearts of the British forces, disrupting their intelligence network and weakening their hold over Ireland.

The Guerrilla Warfare Tactics

The success of The Squad inspired Collins to devise a new strategy for the Irish Republican Army (IRA). He introduced guerrilla warfare tactics, including the infamous flying columns and the concept of "hit and run" attacks.

Collins believed that these tactics would enable the Irish forces to overcome the superior firepower and resources of the British Army. The hit and run attacks involved fast and unexpected strikes against British convoys and barracks, followed by a swift withdrawal to avoid retaliation. The flying columns, on the other hand, were mobile units that operated independently, launching targeted attacks across the country.

These innovative strategies adopted by Collins and the IRA proved to be highly effective, as they undermined the British forces' morale and disrupted their control over Ireland. The guerrilla warfare tactics were instrumental in pushing the British government to the negotiating table and ultimately resulted in the creation of the Irish Free State in 1922.

Legacy and Impact

Tragically, Michael Collins' life was cut short at the age of 31 in an ambush during the Irish Civil War. However, his legacy and impact on Ireland's fight for freedom cannot be overstated.

Collins' tactical brilliance, leadership abilities, and unwavering commitment to the cause inspired countless individuals and left an indelible mark on Irish history. He remains a symbol of resistance against oppression, an exemplar of bravery, and a driving force behind Ireland's pursuit of true independence.

Michael Collins, the visionary leader, The Squad, and their unwavering dedication to the fight for freedom, played a pivotal role in shaping Ireland's history. Through their efforts, Ireland's pursuit of independence transformed from a distant dream to a tangible reality.

Collins' legacy serves as a reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, a single individual can ignite a flame of change that resonates through generations. The sacrifices made by Collins and The Squad should never be forgotten, as they continue to inspire future generations to stand up for justice, equality, and freedom.

The Twelve Apostles: Michael Collins, the Squad, and Ireland's Fight for Freedom

by Tim Pat Coogan (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7304 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The acclaimed author of Michael Collins examines the Irish Republican Army’s counterintelligence unit during and after the Irish War of Independence.
 
Ireland, 1919: When Sinn Féin proclaims Dáil Éireann the parliament of the independent Irish republic, London declares the new assembly to be illegal, and a vicious guerilla war breaks out between republican and crown forces. Michael Collins, intelligence chief of the Irish Republican Army, creates an elite squad whose role is to assassinate British agents and undercover police. The so-called 'Twelve Apostles' will create violent mayhem, culminating in the events of 'Bloody Sunday' in November 1920.

Bestselling historian Tim Pat Coogan not only tells the story of Collins' squad, he also examines the remarkable intelligence network of which it formed a part, and which helped to bring the British government to the negotiating table.</