Emilio Aguinaldo vs Michael Collins

Aguinaldo, as a leader of the Katipunan, was involved in the Philippine Revolution against Spain, which was catalyzed by Rizal's execution. He led revolutionary forces in Cavite, winning early victories against Spanish troops.

Aguinaldo proclaimed the independence of the Philippines from Spain in Kawit, Cavite, establishing the First Philippine Republic. This declaration followed the Spanish-American War and Aguinaldo's return from exile, asserting Filipino sovereignty.

Aguinaldo's forces engaged American troops in Manila, marking the start of the Philippine-American War. The conflict arose from tensions over U.S. annexation of the Philippines, leading to a brutal war that lasted until 1902.

Aguinaldo was captured by U.S. forces in Palanan, Isabela, after a months-long pursuit led by General Frederick Funston. His capture effectively ended the organized phase of the Philippine-American War, leading to his oath of allegiance to the United States.

Collins fought in the Easter Rising as a volunteer in the General Post Office garrison. He was captured and interned in Frongoch camp in Wales. The experience radicalized him and he emerged as a key figure in the independence movement.

Collins became Director of Intelligence for the Irish Republican Army (IRA) during the War of Independence. He organized a network of spies and assassins, targeting British intelligence agents and police. His methods included the 'Squad' assassination unit.

On November 21, 1920, Collins's 'Squad' assassinated 14 British intelligence officers in Dublin. In retaliation, British forces opened fire on a crowd at a Gaelic football match at Croke Park, killing 14 civilians. The day escalated the conflict.

Collins was a key negotiator of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in London, which established the Irish Free State. He signed the treaty despite personal misgivings, believing it was a stepping stone to full independence. The treaty caused a split in the independence movement.

Collins was killed in an ambush by anti-Treaty IRA forces at Beal na Blath, County Cork, on August 22, 1922. His death was a major blow to the pro-Treaty side and deepened the bitterness of the Irish Civil War.

Collins became Chairman of the Provisional Government of the Irish Free State in January 1922. He worked to establish the new state's institutions while facing opposition from anti-Treaty republicans, leading to the Irish Civil War.