'He gave his life for the Irish nation' — How the country reacted to Michael Collins' death

The nation was plunged into grief following the assassination of Michael Collins. Here, using original reporting from the Cork Examiner on August 24, 1922, we look at the reaction to the death of the Irish leader

The historic first photo of the slain General Michael Collins.

Ireland is plunged into irreparable grief by the death in action of General Michael Collins, Commander-in-Chief of the Irish National Army.

Only on Saturday week last was the country shocked and saddened by the demise of the President of Dáil Éireann, Mr Arthur Griffith. So, in only just over a week, Ireland has to bear the loss of two of her greatest sons and do without their strong arms, great gifts of intellect and able statesmanship in the building of the Irish nation.