Matthew Lewis (3)

This is a very well written and researched book. This book arises from the author’s Ph.d thesis. Little has been written of significant depth on the revolutionary period in the area of the Fourth Northern Division which was under the command of Frank Aiken. The book is very well referenced containing some useful new material for future study. In addition he rebuts the claims of certain authors regarding Aiken and Altnaveigh, he was at Dromintee, demonstrating that he was not present, but show more accepting that as commanding officer he would bear responsibility. He also rebuts the claim that Aiken ever approved of a 6:1 retribution policy if Protestants were executed in his district. Regarding the failed Northern offensive he provides evidence of why Aiken and the Fourth Northern may not have participated, three other divisions did not participate either. The failure of the offensive must be attributed to HQ in Dublin rather than Aiken alone. The role of Patrick Casey, given significant prominence in the Mint Productions ‘Gunman Statesman’ documentary, is given more depth and it is revealed that he actually joined that Pro-Treaty forces possibly revealing a potential bias in his views towards Aiken in his statement to the Bureau of Military History. Also another revealing point was how Aiken had influence in the formation of the Collins-de Valera pact and how his presence in Dublin could summon a meeting of opposing leaders. The book reveals clearly how he could embark on his subsequent political journey. show less