Rory Carroll is a specialist in Ireland’s tangled relationship with Britain and the author of the bestselling Killing Thatcher. His latest book focuses on the rogue British diplomat Sir Roger Casement. A leading figure of the establishment, Casement turned his back on the British empire during WWI to fight for Irish independence. In the eyes of British officials, Casement was the first among traitors and he was hunted down by the legendry British spy chief, Reginald ‘Blinker’ Hall. He was executed by hanging. Rory talks to Maurice Walsh about his research, ranging from personal diaries to declassified government files, and how the story still raises profound questions about honour, courage and the price of patriotism.
