Michael Collins

In 1922, Joe O'Reilly seeks to comfort Kitty Kiernan, who is deeply affected by the death of Michael Collins. Her overwhelming grief sets a poignant tone as the narrative unfolds.

The story flashes back to 1916 during the Easter Rising, where Michael Collins and his comrades, including Éamon De Valera, surrender to British forces. Collins expresses his determination to resist oppression, stating they will 'invent our own' rules moving forward.

Following their surrender, most of Collins' fellow patriots face execution by firing squad, while De Valera escapes due to his American citizenship. This harrowing event highlights the deadly consequences of their struggle.

Collins finds himself interned at Frongoch alongside Harry Boland and others, where they begin to plot their next moves amidst confinement. This period serves as a crucial turning point for their revolutionary plans.

Upon his release, Collins runs for election in the First Dáil but encounters violent clashes with the Royal Irish Constabulary during a rally. Boland comes to Collins' aid, showcasing their strong bond as they combat external threats.

While recuperating at a friend's farm, Collins and Boland meet Kitty Kiernan, sparking a romantic involvement between Kitty and Boland. This connection adds complexity to the relationships amidst a backdrop of political turmoil.

Collins learns from Detective Ned Broy about the impending arrest of De Valera and his cabinet. Despite opportunities to escape, only Collins and Boland slip through the British dragnet, leaving De Valera to face his fate alone.

Collins and Boland undertake a daring mission to England, successfully freeing De Valera from Lincoln prison. This act cements Collins' leadership and sets up further challenges between him and De Valera.

As De Valera seeks support in the United States, Collins intensifies IRA attacks on police barracks to gather weapons. This strategy illustrates his commitment to their cause amid growing tension.

On Bloody Sunday, Collins' squad executes fourteen members of MI5's Cairo Gang, resulting in retaliation from the Black and Tans. The framing of the Irish struggle becomes more lethal, as innocent civilians are caught in the crossfire.

De Valera orders an attack on The Custom House, but the mission ends in disaster with significant casualties. Collins expresses concern over the potential for a conventional conflict, but is overshadowed by the Cabinet's decision.

In London, Collins reluctantly partakes in negotiations that lead to the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty. His passionate defense of the Treaty faces backlash from De Valera, igniting political tensions.

As political divisions deepen, both Collins and De Valera fervently campaign among the Irish people. Tensions rise when Collins survives an assassination attempt, while he concurrently proposes to Kitty, heightening stakes in their personal and political lives.

With the collapse of dialogue, the Battle of Dublin erupts, forcing the IRA to retreat. The conflict stirs personal anguish for Collins as Boland is fatally wounded during the violent clash.

As Collins attempts to broker peace in the aftermath of the conflict, a tragic ambush results in his death. His life slips away in Joe O'Reilly’s arms, leaving Kitty devastated as she gears up for their future together.