Irish History Podcast

Are we living through historic times? The Russian Invasion of Ukraine, the Queen's death, Liz Truss and Elon Musk have all dominated the headlines in 2022. However headlines don't always make history. Will the events of our lifetime be remembered in the future?In this episode I look at how the last twelve months might be remembered by future historians.Become a supporter at https://patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Life in Dublin at the turn of the 20th century was difficult to say the least. Working Class Dubliners were lucky if they reached 50. In those five or so decades, they worked dangerous jobs and lived in appalling conditions. In this episode I am joined by Dr Ciara Breathnach. Ciara has spent several years researching the records of Dublin's Coroners Court for her book 'Ordinary Lives, Death, and Social Class: Dublin City Coroner's Court, 1876-1902'. As the Coroner investigated suspicious, unexplained and unusual deaths, this research gave Ciara a unique insight into life in Dublin around 1900. Over the course of our interview Ciara explained how Dubliners lived and died. She also shares some individual cases from the Coroner's Court which provides a deeply personal history of the time and the challenges people faced.You can find Ciara’s Profile at the University of Limerick where she is an Associate Professor in History https://www.ul.ie/research/dr-ciara-breathnachHer book Ordinary Lives, Death, and Social Class: Dublin City Coroner's Court, 1876-1902 is available here https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/ordinary-lives-death-and-social-class-ciara-breathnach/1141544052 (You can also ask your local library to order the book!)My audiobook on the Black Death in Ireland is available for download at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. This can be purchase for a one off payment of €5.99 or is available for show supporters at www.patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Castlekevin was once a thriving settlement deep in the Wicklow Mountains. However in the 14th century after decades of warfare the historical record fell silent. Over the past year the Roundwood & District Historical & Folklore Society have been working with a team of archaeologists to uncover the story of this lost town and castle. Using ground penetrating radar, drones and ecological surveys the team have started to unlock the lost story of this forgotten town.This podcast reveals what was found...A special word of thanks to:Roundwood & District Historical & Folklore Society, the National Monuments Service Community Monuments fund, Yvonne Whitty, Dr Paul Naessens, Faith Wilson, Ivor Kenny, Dr Ger Dowling, Wicklow Co Council Heritage Officer Deirdre Burns, Martin Timmons, Mary Rochford, Chris Corlett and Catherine Wright in Wicklow Archives .Additional narrations from Aidan CroweSound by Kate Dunlea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Black Death changed Europe and Ireland forever. This disease which swept across the continent through 1348 carried off around 40% of the population. Its aftermath was no less sensational as social upheavel, wars and revolts broke out across Europe. Ireland was no different, indeed it was arguably affected in more profound ways than most of the continent. Over last few months I have produced a new hour three hour audio feature on the Black Death in Ireland based on my 2016 book 1348: A Medieval Apocalypse.This podcast previews the audiobook explaining the fascinating history behind these events. How can you get your audiobook of The Black Death in Ireland?Get the book as a one time purchase. You can buy the book for €5.99 in a one time purchase here https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. Select 'The Black Death in Ireland Audiobook' and then you can download the audio to your podcast app.Become a supporter. Supporters of the show at patreon.com/irishpodcast also have access to the book. This recurring monthly fee also gives you access you my extensive back catalogue of exclusive show and my upcoming series on the Civil War. Find out more at https://patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Believe it or not, it was a crime to sell contraception in Ireland between 1935 and 1979. The Irish government also banned all literature on family planning for decades as well. This had a profound impact on life in Ireland. Couples couldn't plan families or engage in recreational sex without fear of pregnancy. This devastated relationships and left many people with a very limited understanding of sex and pregnancy. In this podcast I interview Dr Laura Kelly from the University of Srathcylde. Laura is a leading expert in this area and she explains the background to contraception in Ireland, why it was banned and the devastating consequences of the ban.  Find out more about Laura's research and publications here. Follow Laura on twitter here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While Ireland remained neutral in the Second World War several Nazi agents were smuggled into the country. Their aims varied, some sought to establish contact with the IRA while others were spies. In this episode, I interview historian Marc McMenamin about the attempts of Irish Military Intelligence's to catch these spies and agents. Marc also explains the attitude of the IRA towards these individuals & the forgotten Irish code breakers in the war. Its a fascinating story. Marc has published two books on Irish Military Intelligence in the Second World War Codebreaker & Ireland's Secret War both of which are fantastic reads. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a photo essay to accompany this episode here Conwy castle in Wales in one of Europe's most spectacular medieval castles. Built in the 1280s by Edward I the castle has withstood sieges and the ravages of time. On Sat October 8th I organised a supporters trip to the castle. Early the following morning, as the sun rose over the medieval town I recorded this episode. Using the acoustics of the castle and the walls I explain the history, what the castle looks like today and how its elaborate and lethal defences worked in the middle ages. Deadly stuff in all meanings of the word!Support the show at www.patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this final episode of Ireland's Last Aristocrat, you will hear how Olive Packenham Mahon adjusted to life in Ireland after the War of Independence. This follows her story through the chaotic early days of the Irish Free State, her futile attempts to budget as money ran out and how she would end up an eccentric living in a mansion that crumbled around her. There will be a bonus episode of recordings from Strokestown Park House for supporters at www.patreon.com/irishpodcast later this week. By becoming a supporter you will also get access to my upcoming series on the Irish Civil War. You can find out more about Strokestown Park House and how you can visit Olive Packenham Mahon's home a thttps://strokestownpark.ie/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olive's unpublished diary and letters reveal a story of war, revolution and scandalous relationships in Ireland during the War of Independence.After being raised in splendour with servants taking care of her every need (see part I), this episode follows Olive Packenham Mahon through the Irish revolutionary era. After the outbreak of World War I everything changed. The Packenham Mahons and other aristocrats found themselves on the wrong side of history as revolution swept through Ireland. Olive recorded her experiences in an unpublished diary and letters which provide the basis for this episode. While these recount an unusual perspective on the Irish revolution, they also reveal a love affair that scandalised her family!There is also bonus episode with exclusive content for supporters here.Artwork - Keith HynesSound - Kate DunleaNarrations - Aidan Crowe and Therese Murray Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olive Packenham Mahon was born into wealth and privilege in 1894, but the legacy of a secret funeral and the spectre of war and revolution defined her life. She was no ordinary aristocrat - Olive was the last of her kind...A special thanks to Oisin O'Driscoll, Martin Fagan & Tony Aspel and all the team at Strokestown Park House for their time.Olive Packenham Mahon's home Strokestown Park House is open to the public. You can find out more at https://strokestownpark.ie/.Sound by Kate Dunlea. Artwork by Keith HynesAdditional narrations by Aidan Crowe and Therese Murray.There is a bonus episode with exclusive content from Strokestown available later in the week for show patrons at Patreon - patreon.com/Irishpodcast Acast+ - https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olive Pakenham Mahon was one of Ireland's last Aristocrats. Haunted by a secret funeral in her families past, revolution and war defined her life. She was anything but normal...Subscribe to the Irish History Podcast where you listen to podcasts https://linktr.ee/irishhistory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You may not recognise the name Bridget O’Donnel, but she is one of the most recognisable women in Irish history. In December 1849 her image (pictured in the episode artwork and here) appeared in The Illustrated London News. Over the following decades she became the face of the Great Famine. Today she is one of the most recognisable women in Irish history, but who was Bridget O’Donnel?Is it possible she never existed but was the creation of an artist called James Mahony?Hear the full story of the woman behind this iconic image.Additional narrations from Therese MurrayH/T to Mark Lagan for his help in this!The poster of Bridget mentioned in the episode is available here.Dont forget the supporters trip to Conwy Castle is fast approaching - we leave on October 8th! If you would like to join me on this trip to this amazing castle get in touch today at www.patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode brought to you by NOW, I look into why humans are fascinated with dragons. Did you know mythology around dragons is older than organised religion and spiritual beliefs of any kind? Meanwhile images of dragons has been found on all continents in societies from ancient Ireland to China. In this podcast I look at why dragon myths are so old, where did this mythology came from and what does it mean? Additional narrations - Aidan Crowe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

2022 has been stressful so this episode treats you to 15 minutes of escapism. It brings you back to Dublin in 1320 in a soundscape of the medieval city. Reconstructed by trawling through 700 year old records for distinctive sounds; it was originally released back in 2014 but is definitely worth another listen. I am currently binge editing audio for an upcoming series but I will be back next week with a fresh episode!Join me on patreon, get access to hours of bonus content and join me on my upcoming trip to the stunning Conwy Castle in Wales - www.patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the next two weeks I will be busy writing and editing an upcoming series called Ireland's Last Aristocrat. In the meantime I have dusted down two episodes I thought you might enjoy diving back into. This podcast was released in 2019. It's one of was the most listened to and generated the most feedback! It asks if the Great Hunger was a genocide.Become a supporter and join me on the trip to Conwy - https://www.patreon.com/irishpodcastTickets for this Saturdays live show in Waterford on Michael Collins are available here https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/irish-history-snugcast-history-from-the-high-stool-tickets-390149617007 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since the dawn of history humans have been intrigued by the weather. However while it has the potential to sustain or destroy life, our ability to accurately forecast it is very recent. In this podcast I am joined by meteorologists Evelyn Cusack and Noel Fitzpatrick to explain the fascinating history of weather forecasting. Our desire to predict the weather is a story driven by war, natural disasters, human ingenuity and super computers.You can find the Met Eireann podcast here https://www.met.ie/education/the-met-eireann-podcast/. The specific episode referenced by Noel in relation to Newgrange is available here https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/the-met-%C3%A9ireann-podcast/id1469018144Become a member on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/Irishpodcast and get access toMy upcoming exclusive series on the Civil War with Dr Brian HanleyJoin me on the supporters' trip to Conwy Castle in WalesEarly access to the showAd free episodesHours of supporters only content Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 1950s were a dismal time in Ireland. While the economy tanked, the catholic church, at the height of its power, maintained strict control over social life. Desperate to find a better life, nearly 500,000 Irish people emigrated. This staggering figure was equivalent to 80% of those born in the Free State between 1931 and 1941. This was a level of emigration unseen since the days of the Great Hunger of the 1840s.The vast majority went to Britain with many making London their home. However they found the English capital isolating, lonely and unwelcoming. The poster in boarding houses stating ‘No Dogs, No Blacks, No Irish’ embodied the racism they faced. While many of the 1950s generation are no longer with us, in the late 1990s author Catherine Dunne recorded their stories. The experiences of these emigrants were the basis for her book An Unconsidered People - the Irish in London. In this moving episode Catherine recounts the experiences they shared with her, the racism they faced as well as the isolation and loneliness. She also reveals the importance of solidarity within the Irish community, the legendary Irish clubs such as the Galtymore in Cricklewood and how many made a better life in the face of adversity.You can find Catherine’s book An Unconsidered People - the Irish in London at https://www.newisland.ie/nonfiction/an-unconsidered-people-the-irish-in-londonFollow Catherine’s catherinedunneauthor.comfacebook.com/Author.CatherineDunnetwitter.com/DunneCatherineBecome a member on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/Irishpodcast and getMy upcoming exclusive series on the Civil War with Dr Brian HanleyJoin me on the supporters' trip to Conwy Castle in WalesEarly access to the showAd free episodesHours of supporters only content Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hey folks, I have a few important announcements for you:🎙️🎙️Starting in September supporters (at the $5 tier or more) will receive an exclusive series on the Civil War with Dr Brian Hanley from Trinity College Dublin. You can hear more on this above. Become a supporter to get the seriesPatreon - Patreon.com/irishpodcastAcast+ - https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory🛥️🏰I am delighted to invite announce my a supporters' trip to Wales to visit the stunning Conwy Castle. Conwy is spectacular - you can see a video here https://irishhistorypodcast.ie/video-tour-of-conwy-castle-wales/. If you are a supporter (or become one!) on Acast+ or Patreon and would like to join me, I am currently looking for expressions of interest from you for a trip in September or early October. Let me know on patreon or at [email protected] if you are interested.🎙️ 🍻Live Show - I am doing a live show with Snugcast in Phil Grimes pub, Waterford on August 20th. There are only 30 tickets available for this special event. Get yours now here. https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/irish-history-snugcast-history-from-the-high-stool-tickets-390149617007 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the series finale 'Redemption', we follow Ellen's life in Australia where a strange and unexpected redemption awaits.Support the show:Patreon https://patreon.com/IrishpodcastAcast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryThis week's special supporters are:Z HammingR DownesE ZimmerG HickeyR HurleyM NuttyE RusheP KopfC WilsonJ GuthK McNamaraM KellyL RosewoodD GleasonC StapletonMJ BrodieG Robertson Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The trials are over, the sentences have been passed down and there is nothing left but the punishment. However as we have seen in the story so far, this is story is if anything unpredictable.Support the show:Patreon https://patreon.com/Irishpodcast Acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryThis week's special supporters areStephenAM MulhernB DonohoeK ConnollyS WallG BrowneD HealyB ClearyP LynchL AndersonK L MayerE LewisE JordanD Hensey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Given the popularity of true crime genre, we are increasingly familiar with how murder investigations work in the 21st century. However they were quite different in the 19th century. In the third deep dive of Murder at Mother Mountain I am joined by Dr Niamh Howlin to explain how murder investigations & trials worked in the 1840s. Niamh is an expert on 19th century law and she explains how the process worked before DNA, forensics or even the concept of a trial by a jury of our peers existed! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The trial begins in Nenagh Courthouse in August 1846. What lies ahead for the accused is more uncertain than ever - murder in 19th century Ireland carries the death sentence.Get add free early access to the next episode and help fund the show Patreon https://patreon.com/Irishpodcast Acast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryThis week's special supporters are B FlahertyE FogartyH LewisC RowlandD BrowneP ForanP HurleyC Wright P MeagherM McLoughlinA DunneA PhilbrickK Finn M GrayJ NixonK O'Connor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In part 2 of Murder at Mother Mountain Ellen’s life changes forever on March 10th 1846 when the violence that overshadowed her life finally comes to her door...Support the showwww.patreon.com/irishpodcasthttps://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryThis week's special supporters are M ReneeD Mosier A DacyA O'Brien M KellyJ A C McGowanK L. Daly E LaurentB WalshD Hill C BleakleyM LynchA JamesonG B. LaneG B Lane Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To accompany Murder at Murder Mountain, I am releasing five deep dive episodes which delve into the history of the early 19th century Ireland in greater detail. These will be released between the main episodes. This is deep dive looks at the pre-Famine catholic church. While religion was very important during Ellen Kennedy's childhood, the catholic church emerging from centuries of repression was a very different organsation than it is today. In this podcast Salvador Ryan, professor of Ecclesiastical History in Maynooth, discusses religion and wider spiritual beliefs in the decades before the famine. He also explains why rituals surrounding pattern days and ancient holy wells (also mentioned in episode one) were frowned on by the church hierarchy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ellen Kennedy was born into in Western Tipperary in 1803. Her youth was one nurtured by violence. Hunger and food shortages were common. The stark inequalities lead to frequent outbreaks of violence. In this deeply unequal society young women like Ellen faced the threat of abduction and forced marriage.Ellen however was far from average...Support the show and get early access to the next episode. Patreon http://patreon.com/irishpodcast Acast+ https://play.acast.com/s/irishhistoryAdditional Research - Liam CostelloAdditional narrations - Aidan Crowe and Therese MurrayTheme tune - The Banks of SullanePerformed by Nell Ní ChróinínUilleann Pipes Pipes - Liam CostelloThis week's special supporters areP LynchA HannumM BushertS GrayS WinsorK NeueN BarryB DuffyM O'DonnellA FungeB NicholsonB PoonJ GladdenThe J & L showM Guinane Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ellen Kennedy was born into in Western Tipperary in 1803. Her youth was one nurtured by violence…Listen to an exclusive preview of episode 1 now at https://patreon.com/irishpodcast or Acast+https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the last decade there has been countless events to mark the centenary of the Irish Revolution. However 2022 is also the 175th anniversary of Black ‘47, one of worst years of the Great Hunger. This has received little or no attention. This begs the question does the Great Famine matter anymore or is it fading in to the distant past?In this podcast I looked at the impact of the Great Famine, asking what if any meaning it has for day to day life in the 21st century. Sources mentioned:The school's folklore collection is available at https://www.duchas.ie/en/cbesMy series on the great Famine is available here https://irishhistorypodcast.ie/category/podcast/the-great-famine/The article on the Year of Slaughter - the Famine of the 1740s is available here https://irishhistorypodcast.ie/1741-the-year-of-slaughter/The Special Supporters for this episode are S SteinkerchnerK ChapmanA Stewart-MailhiotK SamarB O'DonovanK Costello B Dunphy TarabuJ DonelanJ.M. CulverW Edwards D Lawall T McCool J LavinD Federman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ireland has some very strange place names. They range from the perplexing – Skeoghvosteen in Kilkenny, to the scandalous - Slutsend in Dublin and Bastardstown in Co Wexford. But where do these names come from and what do they tell us about our history? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you think of the Middle Ages what springs to mind? Medieval battles, warfare and general hardship? Certainly not fun. However while medieval Ireland was a violent place by any standard people were still able to enjoy themselves. In this episode I explore what our medieval ancestors did for fun. From football to archery, poetry to the pub they knew how to have a good time! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Traditional music is central to Irish culture and identity in the 21st century. Contrary to what we might think, this is a relatively recent development. As late as the 1960s Trad was perceived as unfashionable and musicians were not allowed to play in pubs. 60 years later it has become extremely popular and recognised the world over. So what happen?Last weekend I sat down with Tom Mulligan, a legend in Trad scene to talk about the history of Trad over the century. Tom hales from a well known musical family and owns the Cobblestone, the best known traditional music pub in the country. Indeed it was become something of a cultural institution over the last 35 years. In this interview Tom explains the roots of modern trad from Poland, Africa, the USA and back to Ireland. He also elaborates on the intriguing story of how trad went from a marginal genre in Irish society to its contemporary popularity.While Trad has enjoyed a resurgence in recent decades, it faces an uncertain future in the 2020s. Property speculation in Dublin has seen numerous live music venues close in recent years to make way for hotels. There are fewer and fewer spaces for musicians in the city. Last year saw Tom's pub the Cobblestone became the latest to be earmarked for 'development'. Given its historic role in developing and nurturing trad music, this provoked large demonstrations and a campaign #dublinisdying. While the plans to build a hotel on the site were withdrawn last week, Tom explains how the Cobblestone is not out of the woods yet.Follow the Cobblestone on twitter and Insta Music by Liam CostelloSupport the show at Patreon.com/irishpodcast or https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryThis week's special supporters areT Troy S LucasAlexanderW McGuireC Steuland T HigginsR SpowartD BohanGregP McKeyP MyersB BradyB McDonoughK StaufferM MulvaleT Murray Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This live podcast pokes in to the darker corners of the past looking at life in Victorian Waterford. Recorded live in Katty Barry’s in Waterford, it's a strange journey through macabre inquests that took place in pubs through to dentists who peddled cocaine!The second half of the podcast looks at a bizarre murder involving a veteran of the Famine.Support your historywww.patreon.com/irishpodcastThis week's special supporters areA MurphyM CallaghanE KelleherD DwyerA RogersM MaloneL O'BrienWJ MurphyC DoranJ O'HaganM DwyerS QuinnR MorseM DurkinS Reddin Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stephen’s Green is one of Dublin’s well known areas. Located in the heart of the city centre, the Green is home to several prestigous instiutions and businesses including the Royal College of Surgeons, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Shelbourne Hotel. It's history however is very different. Originally a swampy marshland, it was home to numerous brothels and the city gallows. In this podcast I am joined by historian Frank Hopkins to explore the history of St Stephen's Green. We begin on the gallows as Frank explains how public executions were a form of entertainment for many Dubliners. Then moving through the centuries Frank explains who the notorious bodysnatchers of Goat Alley were and the history behind Copperfaced Jack, the man after whom the famous night club is named.The show ends by introducing a certain A Hitler who was regular sight around St Stephens Green in the early 20th century! You can find Frank’s excellent book St Stephen's Green: A History of the Green online and in all good bookshops. What does 50/13 mean? With your support I am planning on releasing 50 episodes this year. 13 is the number of episodes I have produced so far with your support so we are on track! You can support the show and get ad free episodes, early access to the show and exclusive episodes.Each week I acknowledge listeners who support the show. This week's special supporters areThe week's special supporters are:J Arbaugh D Eggleston M Fields W Tolan S Corbet R D Moore L Slavens J Reilly C Donoghue D D Rau J BatesD Celment B Conneely J LooneyR Morahan B White Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Irland Redaktion was a Nazi radio station established during the Second World War. It's sole purpose was to shape and influence Irish public opinion in favour of the Nazis. In this episode I am joined by William Quinlan, the winner of the Irish History Summit RSR competition. William, a stuident in St Jospeph's College Borrisoleigh, wrote his R.S.R. (Research Study Report) on Irland Redaktion. In this podcast he details the fascinating story of this little known station, explaining why it was initially broadcast in Irish, what the Nazis hoped to achieve and if it was successful. Over the last three months I have increased the number of podcasts by one third on the same period last year. This is due to the support of listeners like you who support the show on Acast+ and Patreon. They allow me to dream bigger and make a better show. In recognition of this each week I will be listing patrons of the show as special supporters of episodes in the coming weeks and months. You can get onboard and help the show atPatreon - https://patreon.com/IrishpodcastAcast - https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryThe week's special supporters are:R McCormickI Wöstemeyer A O'BrienM BradyJ FordN ReillyM MullaneyN FeelyJ FitzGeraldF D’ArcyC T MorganC O’NeillK CrossmanC BrennanD GleesonA O'BrienM BradyJ Ford Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What did Dublin look like before the authorities demolished the medieval city? How did Irish people address Queen Victoria during the Famine?The answers to these questions lie in documents stored in Dublin City Library's archives which chronicles 800 years of life in the city. Until now the only way to access the archive and it's fascinating stories was to go in person to Pearse Street Library. That is all about to change. This week sees the launch of a ground breaking project as Dublin City Library and Archive publish 50,000 documents online. Better still they are asking history fans across the world to help transcribe this archive.In this podcast librarian Padraic Stack brings you behind the scenes in the archive. He tells the fascinating stories of letters to the Queen during the Famine and how medieval Dublin was demolished. He also explains how you (yes you!) can get involved in transcribing these documents from the comfort of your home. Its a rare opportunity to get dirty in Dublin's archives! The link referenced in the show is here.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Its National Tree Week! In this special episode brought to you by Wolfgang Reforest, I investigate the history of Ireland's woodlands and forests. The show begins by looking what an actual native Irish woodland because woodlands and forests looked very different in the past. Then we embark on a journery through 12,500 years of our history. From the distant past when 80% of the island was covered with forests through to the 1920s when there was scarcely a single tree in the Irish landscape, the story of our woodlands and forests is interwoven with the history of humans on the island.From the development of agriculture to the Norman Invasion major changes in the way we live our lives has had huge consequences for the trees in the landscape.Follow the show @ Irishhistory on Insta irishhistory on Twitteririshhistorychannel on YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1888 Ireland's most unusual railway, the Lartigue monorail, opened for business. Although largely forgotten, the story of this unique train is intriguing. Operating between the 1880s and the 1920s, it carried everything from tourists to livestock.This show (recorded in Listowel, Co Kerry) explains how this train inspired by camels in the Sahara went onto support an early form of mass tourism in the west of Ireland. Special thanks to John Looney, Martin Griffin and Michael Guerin for their time. Sound by - Jason LooneyAdditional Narrations - Therese Murray. Support your historyPatreon - https://patreon.com/irishpodcastIrish History Podcast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryYou can visit the Lartigue Monorail and Museum and ride the monorail today. Find out more at https://www.lartiguemonorail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grace O'Malley or Granuaile is an iconic name in Irish history. Born in 1530, she emerged as a powerful leader in the West of Ireland in ruthless and violent era as the Tudor reconquest of the Island was in full swing. Grace is often called a pirate queen, a chieftain or even in some tellings a queen of the west. In this episode I interview her biographer Anne Chambers about the real woman and her remarkable life. Anne's book 'Grace O'Malley Ireland's Pirate Queen' is available at her website http://www.graceomalley.com/.Check out the pin of grace in the shop https://irishhistory.bigcartel.com/product/grace-o-malley-pin Support the showPatreon: https://patreon.com/irishpodcastAcast+ https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've made it! This is the final episode in the War of Independence series. The episode begins as Michael Collins and an Irish negotiating team lock horns with Lloyd George and Winston Churchill in London. When a controversial treaty is agreed we return to Dublin to see how it is received. The show also includes extensive recreations of the famous Treaty debates from Aidan and Therese.I hope you enjoy the show. Thank you so much for you support. I have some really great content lined up for coming weeks. These include shows on Grace O'Malley the 16th century pirate queenThe history of Ireland's monorail. A history of hurling. A six part series on life in pre-famine Ireland told through a 19th century murder.A series on the history of podcasting in Ireland (its older than you think!)Sound - Jason LooneyAddition research - Sam McGrathAdditional Narrations - Aidan Crowe and Therese Murraywww.irishhistorypodcast.ie/shop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the second last episode in the War of Independence series. In this podcast we travel to Belfast in the summer of 1921. Despite major violence, the city was preparing for what was only its third visit from a reigning monarch since 1690.With George V due to arrive on June 22nd over 10,000 troops were drafted into Belfast in a massive security operation. What unfolded was unquestionably the most significant royal visit to Ireland since the 17th century.Sound by Jason Looney, additional research Sam McGrath with additional narrations from Aidan Crowe & Therese Murray.The three episodes in Endgame are being released over 8 days. Its around 2 hours of content from scripts totalling over 20,000 words. It took a lot of time to make and would not have been possible without the support of listeners on patreon and Acast+. If you are not listening on Acast+ or Patreon you can support the show herehttps://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistoryhttps://patreon.com/irishpodcastCheck out the range of pewter figures of Irish revolutionaries from the War of Independence at https://irishhistory.bigcartel.com/category/handcrafted-historic-models Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the first of three episodes which will be released over the next 8 days to conclude the War of Independence Series. Endgame I is a fast moving show that takes you back to Cork in the opening weeks of 1921. The war develops a new ferocity with the declaration of martial law. The episode is based around one of the enduring controversies of the war - the kidnapping of the widow Maria Lindsay. The episode also looks at the IRA's worst defeat - the Clonmult ambush and the largest battle of the war - Crossbarry. Then we move to Dublin and finish with the IRA assault on the Customs House. Sound by Jason LooneyAdditional Research Sam McGrath Additional Narrations by Aidan Crowe and Therese MurrayHand painted pewter figures of Irish Revolutionary - https://irishhistory.bigcartel.com/category/handcrafted-historic-models Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Crean was born outside Anascaul, Co. Kerry in 1877. One of eleven children from a small farming family, Crean grew up in a world where Antarctica was still a largely unknown continent.Although overlooked by history, Crean went on to become one of the most distinguished Antarctic explorers of his age. Over the course of his life he would play a key role in several attempts to reach the South Pole. With very limited protective clothing he frequently found himself battling temperatures of -60 C(-76 F). Through these trials he emerged as a tenacious and courageous figure. The stories of Crean's endurance and will to survive are at times unbelievable.In this episode I interview Michael Smith. His book An Unsung Hero: Tom Crean - Antarctic Survivor brought the remarkable life of Crean to public attention after nearly a century in obscurity.Sound by Jason Looney Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Imagine radio had existed during the Great Famine. What would it sound like if you could go to an archive and listen to news reports from 1847?To mark the 150th Anniversary of the Great Hunger in 1997, BBC Merseyside created news reports as if their journalists were reporting live from 1847. With the permission of BBC Merseyside I am delighted to share some of these reports with you in this special episode. Given each report is based on actual events from Liverpool in 1847, this is history like you have never heard it before.Thanks to Pauline McAdam for talking to me about the making of the reports, Mick Ord for sharing them with me and BBC Merseyside for permission to republish them.Sound by Jason LooneyApologies for the delay in getting this show out - I got Covid-19 :( Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The life of Nicholas Boran was extraordinary. Known as 'Nixie', he was born outside Castlecomer in Co Kilkenny in 1904. At the age of 18 he fought in the Civil War alongside Dan Breen in Tipperary. The harrowing violence he witnessed in the conflict permanently scarred him and challenges the romanticised myths that often surround the life of Dan Breen. While this had an enduring legacy, Nixie would gain a national reputation for his actions following the Civil War. After the conflict he returned home but soon found himself in another struggle in Castlecomer. The town was built around coalmines and many of the mine workers toiled in appalling conditions.The pay was poor, the hours were long and conditions were extremely dangerous. With limited legal protections, children as young as 14 were sent to work in the mines. From the 1920s Nixie set about changing this. This began a decades long struggle with the Catholic Church, the Irish government and the local mine owners.In this episode I interview Nixie's daughter, Anne Boran. Anne has recently published a fascinating biography of her late father. In this episode she provides fascinating details about life in the Castlecomer Coalfields and how the Civil War changed her father. Perhaps most interesting of all is how his attempts to improve life in Castlecomer resulted in the Catholic Church attempting to excommunicate him. Its a fascinating story.The history of Castlecomer and its coalmines up until 1921 is the focus of this series https://irishhistorypodcast.ie/category/podcast/communism-coal/Anne's book "Challenge to Power: Nixie Boran (1904-1971), Freedom and the Castlecomer Coal Miners" is available here http://www.geographypublications.com/product/challange-power-nixie-boran-1904-1971-freedom-castlecomer-coal-miners/ Sound by Jason Looney. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most important buildings in terms of Irish history or archaeology is located in North County Dublin. Strange as it may sound, this building is not very old. It actually only dates from the later 20th century and it was originally an electronics factory. However it is now owned by the National Museum of Ireland and houses millions of artifacts amassed over the decades. This fascinating complex, which measures over 200,000 sq feet, is not open to the public. However last Autumn when I was organising the upcoming Irish History Summit in association with the National Museum I got an exclusive tour. In this podcast recorded behind the scenes at the museum you will hear the stories behind some incredible artifacts. Nigel Monaghan tells the story behind a 4000 million year old meteorite that was an ornament in an Irish farmhouse for decades. Later in the episode Brenda Malone explains the remarkable story of an Irish man who served in the RAF during the World War II and captured some pivotal moments of the conflict on camera. Get your tickets to the Irish History Summit (Saturday Jan 15th)https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/irish-history-summit-2022-tickets-194400466027National Museum linkshttps://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Collections-Research/Natural-History-Collections/Collections-List/Meteorites-and-Spacehttps://twitter.com/NMIrelandhttps://www.instagram.com/nationalmuseumofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Mary Celeste is one of the great mysteries of modern times. The ship was found abandoned in the Atlantic in 1872 and the ten people who had been onboard the vessel were missing. However everything else appeared normal. It has never been satisfactorily explained what provoked the crew to abandon the ship in mid winter far from any coast.This episode is recorded in a very Irish unusual castle with echoes of the Mary Celeste - Ballymoon Castle. It too has a somewhat mysterious history. It was abandoned around the year 1300 for reasons that are not entirely clear. In this show I investigate this fascinating building and speculate what may have happened...This is the last show of 2021. I hope you and yours have a great holiday season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Irish women Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby are known to history as the Ladies of Llangollen. In 1780 the two aristocrats caused controversy when they rang away together. They would spend the rest of their lives in Llangollen, a town in north Wales.For nearly 250 years their relationship has been the source of intense speculation. Some claim they were Ireland’s first openly lesbian couple. Others insist they just kindred spirits. Last October I visited Plas Newydd, their home in Llangollen and recorded this special episode of the show about these remarkable women.Thanks to Garth A.P. Thomas for his time.Lori Moriarity’s lecture mentioned in the show can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMEiZKFESNgGet your tickets for the history summit at irishhistorysummit.eventbrite.comVisit Plas Newydd at https://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en/leisure-and-tourism/museums-and-historic-houses/plas-newydd-llangollen.aspx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last month I recorded a show at the Liverpool Irish Festival with Teresa Hill. Teresa is really passionate about her fascinating family history. Her father from was from Freetown in Sierra Leone while her mother's family were from Ireland. In this interview Teresa spoke candidly about her life. She grew up in a Liverpool where racism was common and many Irish families ostracised mixed race family members. However her grandfather Luke Bernard was very different as Teresa explains he was 'a forward thinking man'. She also talked about how sectarianism was a major feature of life in Liverpool and how the Troubles impacted her life. It was a really fascinating discussion about Irish communities in Britain in the 1960s and 70s. I hope you enjoy it. Get your tickets to the Irish HIstory Summit - https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/irish-history-summit-2022-tickets-194400466027Get Irish history themed Christmas presents - www.irishhistorypodcast.ie/shop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following on from the collapse of the Clune Peace talks in December 1920, the British Government adopted an even more aggressive attitude to the war. However as they prepared to escalate the conflict in 1921 some leading figures in the British military and political establishment suggested extreme measures. This episode reveals what were deeply alarming debates taking place about how the war should be escalated.To this end we hear from men who would go on to become some of the most famous British generals of the 20th century - Bernard Montgomery and Arthur Percival both of whom served in Ireland in 1921. The episode also looks at the growing tensions between Eamon DeValera and Michael Collins and the problems this created for the republican movement in 1921. Check out the new shop at www.irishhistorypodcast.ie/shop The Irish History Summit 2022 early bird offers end next week - Irishhistorysummit.eventbrite.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Over the last three episodes of the War of Independence Series, we saw the Republican movement demonstrate an ability and willingness to fight on despite recent setbacks. This episode looks at how the British authorities reacted to these developments. While the immediate reaction was to declare martial law across the South West, there was also murmurings of peace.While indirect talks between republican leaders and the British Authorities started in early December these faced huge challenges. As we will see the republican movement suffered from a lack of cohesion while hardliners in Britain were opposed to any settlement with the IRA.Meanwhile this all took place as the House of Lords passed the most far reaching Irish legislation in a century - the Government of Ireland Act. This legislation which partitioned Ireland had a lasting impact right up the present day.The Irish History Summit is coming in January 2022. No matter where you live you can participate in this day long event from the comfort of your home. https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/irish-history-summit-2022-tickets-194400466027 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Irish History Summit returns! Taking place on Saturday January 15th 2022 we have a great line up of historians and educational experts to prepare students for the Leaving Cert history exams. Headlining this year is the journalist and historian Leo Enright. He will be joined by Dr Sarah Anne Buckley, Dr Brian Hanley and Liz Gillis. We are also delighted to welcome our first international guest - Dr Dieter Reinisch from the University of Vienna.Summit 2022 also has a competition for attending students. They can submit their RSR (Research Study Report) and I will interview the winner on the show in 2022. You can find out more in the show above or at https://irishhistorypodcast.ie/summit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.