The Great Cover-Up: The Truth About the Death of Michael Collins

by Gerard Murphy

Why were both sides of the Civil War divide so evasive when it came to the death of Michael Collins? Why were they still trying to effect cover-ups as late as the 1960s?

Determined to find the truth despite the trails of deception left by many of the key players, Gerard Murphy ... looked in detail at the evidence. Previous reserachers have tended to concentrate on the reminiscences of survivors. Murphy instead focuses on information that appeared in the immediate wake of the ambush, before attempts could be made to conceal the truth. He also examines newly released material, and has carried out a forensic analysis of the ambush site based on photographic evidence recently discovered in a Dublin attic.

Genres: History

288 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2018

Reviews

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book while traveling in Ireland, wanting to learn more about its history. The book delves into a lot of detail about the plot to kill Michael Collins during the Irish Civil War. I did have to check out other sources to get more background on the war, so this may not have been the best book for a novice like me. It’s well-researched and generally well-written, but feels circular at times.

[Seamus · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book won’t tell you who shot Michael Collins but more why and who wanted him killed and the extensive coverup that occurred in the aftermath of the events in Beal na blath. A very intriguing read which stays grounded and doesn’t reach to unnecessary conclusions.

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a novice student of Irish History, I found Gerald Murphy's book, which uniquely relies on the evidence available immediately after Collins' death as well as scientific evidence and expert forensic analysis, to be thought-provoking and enlightening. If one has a basic understanding of the Anglo-Irish War for Independence and the subsequent tragic Civil War, this book will be most engaging. Even if one has only seen the Michael Collins' 1996 film, this book will be worthwhile to read for those interested in learning more about Collins. Mr. Murphy's presentation of scientific facts and forensic analysis is especially persuasive, in my opinion, as well as his analysis of the positions and possible motives of the various players. I have also read Meda Ryan and others analysis of the details of Collins' tragic death and it was quite interesting to compare and contrast with Murphy's work. On a related note, I was extremely disappointed that in December, 2021, Ireland's current Taoiseach, Michael Martin, ruled out exhumation of Collins' body for a formal autopsy. An autopsy would permanently settle many major questions, dispel rumors, and help to settle the serious questions around one of history's most important Cold Cases. Mr. Martin's decision makes it appear that there is indeed credibility to the charge of a massive Cover-up, then and now.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Interesting and detailed examination

I found this to be a fascinating and engrossing read. Probably not for the general reader or those not already familiar with period 1916-1924 in Ireland.

[Thelma Gabbett · Rating 2 out of 5]

Bit disappointed with this didn't see where the cover up was. Didn't learn anything new from this.