John Collins is one of the most famous Irish revolutionaries. The personality is rather ambiguous, in British society to this day there are heated debates regarding the assessment of the activities of this person.
Undoubtedly, John had a huge impact on the development of the struggle of the Irish people for freedom from British oppression. But at the same time, he played a decisive role in the division of Ireland, which subsequently led to a bloody civil war.
Irish Biography: John Collins
John was born in County Cork in 1890. His father was a farmer. The farm brought some profit, but it was impossible to call Collins prosperous. My father was not young, so his brothers also engaged in the upbringing of John. Michael, the father of the child, was formerly part of the Irish separatist movement Shin Fein. In his youth, even showed activity in the struggle for the freedom of Ireland. However, then he retired and began farming. In 1896 he died. According to many historians, before his death, he said that his youngest son, John, would become a great man for Ireland.
John from childhood has established himself as a talented young man. He studied well and quickly grasped new information. Since he grew up without a father, he spent a lot of time with his old friends. In particular, the blacksmith James Sentry had a serious impact on the boy. From him, he adopted the spirit of Irish patriotism. The principal of the school where Collins studied was a member of the radical Irish Republican Brotherhood. He paid close attention to the young man, as he saw in him the future fighter for independence of the "old woman of Ireland."
After leaving school, John Collins goes to London, where he goes to college. Life in British society further strengthens hatred of the United Kingdom. He finishes his studies and takes a job at the post office. Also enters the secret cell of the Irish Brotherhood. There he quickly gains trust and respect among the permanent members. Already at the age of 19 he was introduced to the top management of the organization.
Preparing for the performance
In 1914, Britain entered the First World War. The leaders of various Irish underground organizations regard this event as a chance to start an armed struggle. Active preparation begins. John Collins is directly involved.
According to the separatists, a sharp popular uprising will bring significant success, since the British army is weakened by participation in the war. They were also inspired by revolutions in other parts of Europe. In particular, the October Revolution in Russia, which seemed doomed to failure.
Easter rebellion
After 2 years, the date was already chosen - April 24th. It was the day after Easter. The separatists believed that this was a very convenient date, since Ireland had a significant stratum of ardent Catholics. So, on Monday began large-scale protests in Dublin. Radical groups like the Irish Volunteers and the Civil Army have taken control of the main administrative buildings of the capital. John Collins led intelligence. He personally participated in clashes with the British army. With arms in hand, he defended the administration of the Postal Service. After the suppression of protests, the war for the independence of Ireland began.
