We've uncovered a strange connection between Michael Collins and the famous John Dillinger, at one time the most wanted Man in America

Michael Collins famously achieved great success in the War of Independence by finally blinding the watching eyes of the notorious Intelligence staff at Dublin Castle. They had long operated an elaborate system of informers and spies that had frustrated the efforts of Irish nationalist.

At the height of the War of Independence, Collins was the 'most wanted man in Ireland' being aggressively pursued by the might of the British Intelligence Service. Of course, he successfully avoided capture despite some very close encounters.

By a strange twist, Michael's brother Patrick was a prominent member of the Chicago police force reaching the rank of captain. Patrick was involved in the campaign to capture the infamous John Dillinger, at one time, the 'most wanted man in America'. He was the first criminal to be declared Public Enemy No.1.

The two Collins brothers, so obviously on opposite sides of the law, had a close bond and Michael wrestled with the decision to join his brother in Chicago on many occasions.