Mick Clifford: Michael Collins — 'the man who won the war' — showed grit from an early age

Mick Clifford details the significant dates that map the life of Michael Collins

Michael Collins was born in 1890 in Woodfield near Clonakilty in Co Cork. Picture: Walshe/Getty Images

Three dates in the space of less than a year map out the short life and monumental work of Michael Collins.

On July 11, 1921, the War of Independence against the crown forces concluded with a truce. This was, in reality, a huge win for the Irish side.