England's Greatest Spy

by John J. Turi

John J. Turi, in his book, England's Greatest Spy, presents startling new evidence to prove that the man who led Ireland throughout most of the 20th century was not a sainted national leader of high purpose and moral principle. Instead, he was an agent for England, subverting Irish aspirations while working diligently to promote English interests in Ireland and America. Rather than lionize de Valera, as a succession of Irish writers have done for more than half a century, Turi puts him in the dock and exposes the ways and means by which every major decision of the Irish President worked to the benefit of England with disastrous results for Ireland. In doing so, Turi sets Irish history on its head. He calls for a reexamination of almost the entire pantheon of 20th century Irish heroes and villains, saints and sinners. His work questions almost every article of faith in the Irish historical canon and answers questions that heretofore have gone unanswered. He challenges beliefs that have gone unchallenged. He poses daunting issues for traditionalist and revisionist alike. England's Greatest Spy is fascinating reading not only for Irish scholars but also for history and mystery buffs everywhere.

Genres: History

580 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2009

Reviews

[S. Sigerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Turi lifts the lid on the inner machinations of DeValera's career. He has cracked the soluble riddles of this Irish statesman's many faces. Anyone interested in understanding Michael Collins' life & times should not miss this inside story on his most prominent Irish opponent. Supported by a wealth of original research, notes, & bibliography.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an Irishman this book caused what felt like a purely psychological stroke. How could we be so blind to the blatantly obvious 😢😠😔

[Enda S · Rating 1 out of 5]

I struggled through this one. A close to 500 page (what I can only describe as a) rant, with the author going around in circles & jumping to conclusions without any documentary evidence.

[Cian O hAnnrachainn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author's attempt to make his case, that Dev was a spy for England, is not fully supported by the evidence, but it's an intriguing theory just the same. The book is well worth reading, if only to show how a very stupid and incompetent man can rise to power, hold it, and run an entire country into dismal poverty.