Why August 22 should be a national holiday
Collins’ relevance to an Ireland much changed since 1922 is remarkable. Given today’s mania for the calibration of almost everything into top 10 listings, Collins regularly finds himself in the position of chart-topper: political hero; significant public figure of the 20th century; cultural icon; inspiration for young people.
Despite the divisions that the Civil War wreaked on all aspects of Irish life, and the waning appetite for patriotism in the land of the Celtic Tiger, it is significant that Collins should hold such an exalted position in the hearts and minds of the nation today.
