"Bobby Sands, the Irish poet and political activist"

Surely Terrorist would be a more appropriate label.

Even if the "only offense (sic) linked to his name was the burning of a carpet factory" that is not a political act but a criminal act of arson for which a prison sentance is entirely appropriate.

Furthermore, in my humble, anyone associated with the IRA (including anyone whose ever willingly donated any money to them) should be classed as a murderer. There is no defence.