C. S. Andrews (1901–1985)

Andrews' first half of his autobiography is a worthwhile edition to any bookcase. He grew up and participated in highly interesting and dramatic times in Ireland. He gives an interesting portrayal of social life in Dublin at the turn of the twentieth century. In addition, after the events of the Easter Rising, he joined Sinn Féin and the IRA and was a participant in the War of Independence. The book is well written and Andrews provides his rationale for taking his decision. His service in the IRA is documented and this book does prove to be a useful historical record of these times. So too are his difficult experiences on hunger strike and in prison. Andrews opposes the Treaty and gives his rationale for doing so. He then continues his activities as an Intelligence Officer in the IRA on the Anti-Treaty side. He is ultimately imprisoned and the book ends, to be continued in his next book “Man of No Property.”… (mais)

The second half of Andrews' biography takes us from his release after the end of the Civil War to his retirement from the public service. A hard hitting book Andrews cannot be criticised for not calling a spade; a spade. Very hostile commentary toward the main protaganists of the Provisional Government/Cumann na nGaedheal/Fine Gael party. His experience at Bord Na Mona is interesting nonetheless as is his similar managerial time with CIE and the RTE authority. His chapter on de Valera is quite heartfelt. A useful book for any economic history student and for anyone analysing the genesis of Fianna Fáil.… (mais)