ABSTRACT
After the Anglo-Irish Treaty, Ulster, under Sir James Craig, insists on remaining part of Britain. Widespread outbreaks of sectarian violence occur, with the attacked Catholic populations being driven out. In the south, Ireland is divided about accepting the Treaty and the IRA splits, a substantial part forming an anti-Treaty IRA. Collins embarks upon a guerrilla campaign in the North. This is partly to give support to the oppressed Catholic populations, but also, if possible, to recover the North and re-unite the IRA. Both Republican anti-Treaty IRA and pro-Treaty IRA units are sent north to engage in the campaign. Collins supports these units with arms and funds. The campaign fails due to the overwhelming forces deployed by the British military and Ulster law enforcement. However, it reveals the genius of Collins. He implements the peaceful transition of the Anglo-Irish Treaty with the British, whilst financing political violence and waging war against them in the north. He clandestinely transfers funds to both pro-Treaty IRA and ante-Treaty IRA. He secretly sends arms to both pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty IRA arms, yet retains control of these for the pro-Treaty IRA for any future civil war. He clandestinely transfers funds for both pro- and anti- Treaty IRA, whilst retaining full control of the fund flow in favour of the pro-Treaty IRA.
