The Rest Is History 580. The Irish Civil War: The Assassination of Sir Henry Wilson (Part 1)
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Jul 6, 2025 
Historian Ronan McGreevy, author of 'Great Hatred,' dives into the assassination of Sir Henry Wilson, a pivotal event in the Irish Civil War. Discussing Wilson’s controversial legacy, McGreevy reveals how his murder by Irish nationalists sparked widespread turmoil and led to a deep divide in Ireland. The conversation explores Wilson's views on Home Rule, the perception of his death as similar to Archduke Ferdinand's, and how his assassination shifted the course of Irish independence. McGreevy's insights illuminate the complexities of identity and politics during this tumultuous period.
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Sir Henry Wilson's Military Impact
- Sir Henry Wilson was an influential Irish-born British Field Marshal and military strategist.
- He's credited as one of the key figures who helped bring World War I to a swift end in 1918.
Wilson Opposed Home Rule Fiercely
- Wilson was an Irish Unionist fiercely opposed to Home Rule and contemplated military disobedience over it.
- His anti-Home Rule stance angered British Prime Minister Asquith and delayed Wilson's career.
Wilson Saw Ireland as Military Issue
- Wilson believed the Irish War of Independence was a military problem requiring a hard crackdown.
- He publicly advocated sending in massive British military force to defeat the IRA.
