Throughout his long life of public service, Dr T.K. Whitaker’s contribution to the economic, financial, social, educational, political and cultural evolution of the Irish state was unprecedented.

In this new edition of his biography, author Anne Chambers reveals the extraordinary diversity of Whitaker’s undertakings on behalf of the State and its people; his relationship with national and international political leaders and organisations; his background, motivations, humour and compassion; the personal losses endured; the many highlights enjoyed; and his legacy and relevance today.

This informative portrait presents the man behind the public servant. His personal archive, together with interviews conducted with him by the author, encapsulates the late Dr Whitaker’s personality, voice and opinions, which gives this biography a special significance.

In this age of entitlement, self-promotion and narcissistic absorption, the ethos of Whitaker’s work and dedication to the common good is all the more relevant, as well as a vindication of why the ordinary citizens of Ireland choose him as their ‘Irishman of the 20^th Century’.