Much of the commentary surrounding the passing of Martin McGuinness has centered on the great man who made history.

Depending on the editorial line, the departed chieftain was portrayed as either a dangerous-but-reformed terrorist, an outstanding statesman, or someone who betrayed his republican principles. Much of the coverage has been not only facile but inaccurate.

Seen clearly, Martin McGuinness was a product of his environment. He reflected the history, strengths, and weaknesses of the political movement he belonged to — one that engaged, militarily and politically, in Ireland’s northern six counties over a turbulent half century.