Views of Sir Roger Casement

[Shadowsong]

Hey all! After doing a little reading for history class this year, I've found myself fascinated by the story of Sir Roger Casement. There are a couple questions I'd like to pose, and all debates/views are welcome!
1-What is your point of view on the notorious 'black diaries'? That is, do you believe they were his (therefore holding to the belief that Casement was, indeed, homosexual), or do you believe they were forged by those who wished him hanged for being an Irish patriot? (Yes, I know of the forensic tests they did, and proved it was his handwriting, but STILL...)
2-Do you see his role as Irish patriot or British traitor? (Sorry if it's a strong topic for people, just wonderin'...)
And...well that's it I guess. Either way you look at the last question (or, heck, the first, depending on your beliefs) you can't deny the great stuff he did in exposing the Congo atrocities, not to mention those in South America as well. What I love is that it seems to me like he wanted fair treatment and liberation for *all* oppressed peoples, not just his own. Not a thing often found.
Anywho--discussion time! :abanana:

[Shadowsong]

Might help if I share my own views:
1-Concerning the diaries, I believe they were his, and honestly more power to the man. I mean, yes, it probably would have been a good idea for him *not* to write about that stuff, knowing it could so easily be used against him, but there is certainly something being said for being gay at that time period. Thank the gods we're more enlightened now!
2-Irish patriot all the way, since (as I said) I see him wanting fair treatment and equality for everyone, not just the Irish, so somehow I think it's all right. Granted, I don't really like the idea of him going to Germany for help (wait, he went to the US too, right?) but I don't think he should be considered a traitor. But that's just my view of it; I'm sure my uncle would say differently.
BTW anyone know of some good bios of him? Can't seem to find any...

[ap Dafydd]

Yes to both. Yes he was gay (and the diaries were made public to try to discredit him with Catholics in Ireland) and yes he was a true Irish patriot.

'Nuff said

gwyn eich byd

Ffred