While this episode fits into a bigger series on the 1798 Rebellion, it’s also designed to stand on its own.The French Revolution of 1789 electrified Ireland, inspiring hope and fear in equal measure. It would lead to the establishment of Ireland’s republican movement in 1791.Exploring the profound impact of the revolution in Ireland, this episode opens with the dramatic story of Henry Edgeworth, an Irish priest living in Paris, who would participate in one of the most famous executions of the revolution - an event with profound effects at home in Ireland.We then explore how the spread of revolutionary ideas led to the foundation of the Society of United Irishmen, who would spearhead Ireland’s revolution in 1798. As old certainties crumble, Ireland stood on the brink of a new, exciting but dangerous age.This is Episode 3 in my series on the 1798 Rebellion. The next instalment, Part 4, will be available early and ad-free for show supporters next Monday week.Become a supporter today and get exclusive early and ad-free access at:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IrishpodcastSupercast: https://irishhistory.supercast.com/Written, narrated and produced by Fin DwyerSound: Kate DunleaAdditional Research: Stewart ReddinVoice Actors: Aidan Crowe & Therese MurrayContact me with your questions at info(at)Irishhistorypodcast(dot)ie.A list of sources for the 1798 Rebellion is available here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/138580354 (the post is not paywalled) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode is part of a wider series on the 1798 Rebellion, but you can enjoy it as a stand-alone story.When the American Revolution broke out in the 1770s, it sent shock waves across the Atlantic, transforming Irish politics and society. To explore this enthralling story the episode begins with the arrival of Benjamin Franklin in Dublin - a visit that would have unexpected consequences for Ireland’s future.We explore how revolutionary ideas, economic hardship, and the threat of invasion combined to spark new demands for change in Ireland. The episode goes on to trace Ben the rise of the Patriot movement and the revolution of 1782, as Irish society starts to cleave apart.This is Episode 2 in my series on the 1798 Rebellion. The next installment, Part 3, will be available early and ad-free for show supporters next Monday.Become a supporter today and get exclusive early and ad-free access at:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IrishpodcastSupercast: https://irishhistory.supercast.com/Written, narrated and produced by Fin DwyerSound: Kate DunleaAdditional Research: Stewart ReddinVoice Actors: Aidan Crowe & Therese MurrayContact me with your questions at info(at)Irishhistorypodcast(dot)ie.A list of sources for the 1798 Rebellion is available here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/138580354 (the post is not paywalled) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This podcast opens a broader series on the 1798 Rebellion, but also works as a stand alone episode.For over a century, Irish Catholics and Presbyterians were subjected to the Penal Laws. Although the vast majority of the population, they were banned from voting, sitting in parliament, bearing weapons, and entering many professions—the list goes on.This episode explores the deeply unequal society these laws created. By following the life of Emily Fitzgerald, who moved to Ireland in 1747, we gain a unique insight into this world. I explain how the Penal Laws emerged after a century of warfare, how Catholics resisted their brutal treatment, and how these laws created a deeply unequal and unstable society.To find our feet in this world, we begin in the harrowing winter of 1740, which led to the Year of Slaughter—the worst famine in Irish history.This podcast launches my series on the 1798 Rebellion. The next instalment, Part 2, will be available early and ad-free for show supporters next Monday.Become a supporter today and get exclusive early and ad-free access at:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IrishpodcastSupercast: https://irishhistory.supercast.com/Sound: Kate DunleaAdditional Research: Stewart ReddinVoice Actors: Aidan Crowe & Therese MurrayA list of sources for the 1798 Rebellion is available here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/138580354 (the post is not paywalled) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The 1790s remain one of the most important decades in modern Irish history. After years of rising tensions, the island was rocked by the 1798 Rebellion—the largest uprising in Irish history. In just a few months, more people perished than in all the conflicts of the 20th century combined.These events continue to cast a long shadow over life in Ireland and are central to understanding this island in the 21st century. In many ways, 1798 is our foundational story. So much of what followed from the War of Independence to the Troubles sought to answer questions first posed by Ireland’s revolutionary generation of the 1790s. What does it mean to be Irish? Why is our history so deeply divided along religious lines? And what lies at the heart of the bitterness that has marked modern Anglo-Irish relations?In my gripping new series, starting next week, I’ll take you deep into life in 18th-century Ireland and uncover the dramatic story of the 1798 Rebellion. Through the gripping narratives of people who lived through these remarkable events, we’ll explore the anti-Catholic Penal Laws, the impact of the American and French Revolutions, and how Ireland’s republican movement emerged in the 1790s.It’s a story dominated by larger-than-life characters from the great-grandson of an English king who became Ireland’s leading revolutionary, to the spies and agents who betrayed friends and comrades. The series navigates global revolutions and the brutal realities of war and sectarianism in Ireland.Whether you’re new to Irish history or searching for fresh insights, this series brings the drama, the characters, and the high stakes of the 1790s to life. Join me as we uncover how the 1798 Rebellion changed Ireland forever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the 1960s, over 30,000 Irish immigrants were working in Britain’s National Health Service (NHS). While the NHS is often celebrated as one of Britain’s greatest achievements, the vital contributions of these Irish nurses are frequently overlooked. In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Louise Ryan, co-author of Irish Nurses in the NHS: An Oral History, to discuss the experiences of these remarkable women.Louise shares how, for many Irish nurses, Britain offered opportunities unimaginable at home. Yet, despite their essential role in building the NHS, they often faced racism and discrimination.Get Irish Nurses in the NHS: An Oral History by Louise Ryan, Gráinne Mac Polin, and Neha Doshi: Four Courts PressSpecial offer: Life in Medieval Ireland and The Black Death in Ireland – both books for €30 https://irishhistory.bigcartel.com/product/medieval-ireland-book-bundle-two-bestsellers-for-30Support the show and get ad-free episodes at patreon.com/irishpodcastSound by Kate Dunlea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
William the Conqueror has been dead for nearly a thousand years, and he never set foot in Ireland—so how did he end up at the centre of a modern Irish culture war? With Normandy gearing up for “The Year of the Norman” in 2027, a celebration of William’s legacy has sparked fierce debate on this side of the Irish Sea. Should Ireland join in commemorating a figure whose impact here is so fraught and contested? What does this row reveal about how we remember the past, and who gets to decide what’s worth celebrating? In this episode, I explore how a medieval king became the unlikely flashpoint for Ireland’s latest history debate, and what it tells us about the way we use and sometimes misuse our history today.Want to dive deeper into Ireland’s medieval past? You can get both of my bestselling books—Life in Medieval Ireland and 1348: A Medieval Apocalypse – The Black Death in Ireland—together for just €30. Grab the Medieval Ireland Book Bundle now at https://irishhistory.bigcartel.com/product/medieval-ireland-book-bundle-two-bestsellers-for-30 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 1973, just two people attended the lonely funeral of May O’Callaghan, an Irish emigrant in North London. Few could have imagined that this quiet woman from Wexford had once stood at the very heart of Soviet power. In the 1920s, May O’Callaghan worked in the Kremlin as the Soviet Union emerged, working alongside figures like Stalin, Trotsky, and the future Marshal Tito.For decades, her remarkable story was forgotten until historian Maurice Casey uncovered her story in his acclaimed book, Hotel Lux. In this episode, I interview Maurice about May's life and the extraordinary journey that took May from Ireland to the corridors of Soviet power.Get your copy of Hotel Lux: https://linktr.ee/hotelluxpreordersCheck out Maurice's personal website: mauricejcasey.comSupport The Irish History Podcast patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This special episode of the Irish History Podcast, in partnership with An Post, marks the 250th anniversary of Daniel O’Connell’s birth.In this podcast, I explore the life and legacy of one of Ireland’s most influential figures. Known as 'The Liberator' O’Connell’s campaign for Catholic Emancipation in 1829 and his role in shaping modern Ireland are legendary, but his story is complex.From his early days in Kerry and his experiences during the French Revolution to the personal demons that haunted him, O’Connell is an intriguing figure. Although a pacifist, he killed a rival in a fatal duel. A founding father of Irish nationalism, O’Connell was also a monarchist. This episode teases out these contradictions.To mark the anniversary of his birth, An Post has released two commemorative stamps capturing pivotal moments in O’Connell’s story: his iconic ‘monster meetings’ and his release from prison in 1844. Check out the stamps at anpost.com/history.In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Brian Casey, historian and archives manager at the Dublin Cemeteries Trust, for a fascinating conversation recorded in Glasnevin Cemetery, just steps from O’Connell’s final resting place. Together, Brian and I explore the history behind this legendary figure.You can get the commemorative stamps now at anpost.com/history and in selected post offices across Ireland.Audio edit by Kate Dunlea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
How do we decide who the most significant people in our history are? Whose story is worth telling? In this episode, I’m joined by Eoin Kinsella, managing editor of the Dictionary of Irish Biography, to explore how he and the team behind this remarkable resource tell the story of our island through biography. The DIB, a free to access to website has thousands of biographies on figures from Irish History.From Henry McCullough, the only Irish musician at Woodstock, to Ann Lovett, whose tragic death forced a nation to confront uncomfortable truths, and Brendan Hughes, whose life mirrored the turbulence of the Troubles, this conversation delves into the complexities of who gets remembered—and why.People mentioned in the episode. Ann Lovett https://www.dib.ie/biography/lovett-ann-a10324Eamon De Valera https://www.dib.ie/biography/de-valera-eamon-dev-a2472Bang Bang https://www.dib.ie/biography/dudley-thomas-bang-bang-a2803The Dice man https://www.dib.ie/biography/mcginty-thom-diceman-a5672John Mitchel https://www.dib.ie/biography/mitchel-john-a5834John Redmond https://www.dib.ie/biography/redmond-john-edward-a7602Brendan Hughes https://www.dib.ie/biography/hughes-brendan-a9636Dolours Price https://www.dib.ie/biography/price-dolours-a10048Martin McGuinmess https://www.dib.ie/biography/mcguinness-james-martin-pacelli-a10375Michael Collins https://www.dib.ie/biography/collins-michael-a1860Daniel O’Connell https://www.dib.ie/biography/oconnell-daniel-a6555Charles Stewart Parnell https://www.dib.ie/index.php/biography/parnell-charles-stewart-a7199Francis Sheehy Skeffington https://www.dib.ie/biography/skeffington-francis-sheehy-a8105Lady Mary Heath https://www.dib.ie/biography/heath-sophie-mary-lady-heath-nee-peirce-evans-other-married-name-eliott-lynn-a2963Henry McCullough https://www.dib.ie/biography/mccullough-henry-campbell-liken-a10389Eva Gore Booth https://www.dib.ie/biography/booth-eva-selina-gore-a0784 Do you have suggestion for entries. Contact the DIB at Dib@rai.ie Sound by Kate Dunlea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
When we think of Ireland’s past, we usually envisage an island shaped by two languages: Irish and English. But hidden in the history of South Wexford is Yola, a unique dialect that survived for centuries after the Norman invasion, only to vanish almost without a trace.In this episode, I am joined by Sascha Santschi-Cooney to explore the fascinating story of Yola: where it came from, who spoke it, what it sounded like, and why it disappeared. From medieval settlers to the Great Vowel Shift and the impact of Cromwell, the history of this dialect is intriguing.Get a copy of Sascha's 2019 book The Forth & Bargy Dialect at your local library https://waterford.spydus.ie/cgi-bin/spydus.exe/FULL/WPAC/BIBENQ/458376473/1314333,1Follow Sascha's work on Linkedin https://ie.linkedin.com/in/sascha-santschi-cooney-76a885188Sound by Kate Dunlea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode continues the story of NORAID - the Irish American organisation who were the voice of the IRA in the US. Jamie Goldrick and I delve into the complicated history of wider Irish American involvement in the Troubles. It's a history full of contradictions on both sides of the Atlantic. In the Republic, many criticised NORAID’s actions, yet did little themselves. Meanwhile, NORAID had little to say about the Vietnam War or the Civil Rights Movement in America.Together, Jamie and I pick apart this complex and often uncomfortable chapter in Irish and Irish American history.Jamie Goldrick is the producer of NORAID: Irish America & the IRA which screens on RTE on July 9th & 16th. Check it out on https://www.rte.ie/player/There are a limited number of tickets for my live podcast on Daniel O’Connell in Glasnevin Cemetery. It takes place on July 24th, entry is free but booking is essential. Contact irishhistorypodcast@acast.com for your ticket today.Sound by Kate Dunlea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we explore the fascinating and controversial story of NORAID, the Irish American organisation at the heart of the new documentary NORAID: Irish America & the IRA. Joined by the film’s producer, Jamie Goldrick, we unravel the history that made NORAID so influential, examining its activities, its impact on the Troubles, and its lasting legacy in both Ireland and America. From high-profile stunts in Times Square to persistent allegations of gun running, this conversation offers fresh insights into a pivotal but often overlooked chapter of history. NORAID: Irish America & the IRA screens on RTE on July 9th & 16th. Check it out on https://www.rte.ie/player/Get your tickets to the live podcast on Daniel O’Connell at irishhistorypodcast@acast.comSound by Kate Dunlea Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In the 1950s, more than 20,000 people—over one percent of the adult population of Ireland—were locked away in mental asylums. This was the highest rate in the world, with more people confined in asylums than in all other institutions, including prisons, combined.Yet, despite these staggering numbers, the story of Ireland’s asylums remains largely unspoken. In this episode, historian Fin Dwyer is joined by Prof Brendan Kelly to uncover the history behind these institutions. They explore the origins of Ireland’s asylums, the harsh realities faced by those inside, and the complex reasons why communities didn’t oppose these bleak institutions but often welcomed their opening. Through powerful stories and revealing statistics, this episode shines a light on a dark chapter of Irish history that we still struggle to confront.Get an ad-free version of the show at Patreon.com/irishpodcastGet Brendan's book 'Inside Grangegorman' https://shop.ria.ie/products/asylum-inside-grangegormanSound by Kate Dunlea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
While we’re on the last week of our summer break, we’re bringing you one of our most popular episodes from the back catalogue.For over four decades, contraception was not just taboo in Ireland—it was illegal. From 1935 to 1979, selling contraceptives and even accessing information about family planning was strictly banned by the Irish government. These laws reshaped daily life, leaving couples unable to plan their families and forcing many to navigate relationships under the shadow of fear and uncertainty.In this episode, I talk to Dr. Laura Kelly from the University of Strathclyde, a leading authority on the history of contraception in Ireland. Laura reveals the origins of these bans, the motivations behind them, and the lasting consequences for Irish society.Next week, I return with the fascinating history exploring why Ireland institutionalised over 1% of its population in psychiatric hospitals and mental asylums.Find out more about Laura’s research and publications here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A story from the 1920s that will reshape the way you view our great grandparents lives!Unfortunately, there’s no new show this week, but I wanted to re-share an episode I really enjoyed making two years ago. It'll well worth another spin.In 1920s Ireland, Alice Morton’s marriage breakdown sparked a sensational divorce trial. Accused of adultery, Alice’s sex life was laid bare in court, subjecting her to public humiliation.Her husband sued her alleged lover for damages, treating Alice as property under the law. However rather than endure the shame and exposure, Alice fled and lived in hiding for nearly two years. This podcast tells her story.Sound by Kate Dunlea. Additional Narrations Aidan Crowe & Therese Murray. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Irish funeral wake is a unique tradition where family and friends gather around the body of the deceased to share stories, remember their life, and celebrate their legacy. Often resembling a lively party with plenty of drink, this ritual is both a farewell and a celebration.Predating Christianity, the Irish wake stretches back thousands of years. In this episode, recorded at the Irish Wake Museum in Waterford, Donnchad Ó Ceallacháin and Clíona Purcell join Fin Dwyer to explore the fascinating history behind this enduring Irish custom.Clíona and Donnchad are curators at the Irish Wake Museum. The museum is well worth checking out. Book your tickets at https://www.waterfordtreasures.com/museum/irish-wake-museum/Sound: Kate DunleaSupport the podcast and get an ad-free versions of the show at patreon.com/irishpodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In times past, childbirth was a profoundly communal and intimate experience, guided by the steady hands and wisdom of community midwives. Known as Bean Ghlúine—the Women of the Knee—these women were among the most important figures in rural Irish communities.In this episode, I’m joined by historian Emma Laffey to explore the world of birth and midwifery in a time before pregnancy tests or pain relief. Through the remarkable story of community midwife Mary Anne Fanning, our conversation uncovers the history of birth and the key role midwives played in Irish communities. They delivered not just babies, but in an era of high infant mortality, they were also called upon to guide families through loss and tragedy.*This episode discusses themes of childbirth and infant loss, which some listeners may find distressing.*Sound by Kate DunleaResourcesVisit the Exhibition:https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Country-Life/Exhibitions/Mary-Anne-Fanning-Remembering-our-Community-MidwivRead Emma's book Woman of the Knee Midwife & Handywoman for freehttps://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/people/an-bhean-ghluine/an-bheanghluineFind out more about Irish community midwiveshttps://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/category/topics/an-bhean-ghluineWatch this interview with community midwife Bina Kelly interviewed in 1983 https://skehana.galwaycommunityheritage.org/content/people/an-bhean-ghluine/an-bhean-ghluineiCAN: Irish Community Archive Networkhttps://www.ouririshheritage.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Nestled deep in the Wicklow Mountains, Glenmalure was once a stronghold for rebels and a sanctuary from the outside world. But long after the echoes of rebellion faded, the valley remained a place apart, where the comforts of modern life arrived late. Glenmalure was only connected to the electricity grid and running water in the late 20th century, and the rhythms of daily existence were shaped by isolation, resilience, and community spirit.In this evocative episode, which concludes a series on the Wicklow Military Road, historian Fin Dwyer shares the stories of people who lived in this isolated and remote valley.Recorded in a 200-year-old inn, this episode weaves together personal recollections, local history, and the enduring landscape of Glenmalure. It is a tribute to a way of life that has only recently disappeared!The episode features the voices of Carmel O’Toole, Michael Fewer, Marion McEvoy, Hugh McLindon, and Pat Dunne. This episode would not have been possible by the hours of recordings with the Glenamalure Pure Mile Group.Thanks to the Glenmalure Lodge for faciliating this episode.A special thanks to Deirdre Burns, the Heritage Officer of Wicklow County Council.This episode was funded by Wicklow County Council and the Heritage Council.Sound by Kate Dunlea.200 Anniversary Events to mark the death of Michael Dwyer This year marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Michael Dwyer, the rebel who played a pivotal role in the history of the Wicklow Military Road. On August 23rd, 2025, a special event is being organised to explore Michael Dwyer, his life, and his legacy. Find out more here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/michael-dwyer-200-registration-1358221520129?aff=oddtdtcreatorBooks on Glenmalure and the Wicklow Military Road:Carmel O'Toole: Glenmalure: The Wild Heart of the MountainsMichael Fewer: The Wicklow Military RoadAdditional Sources:Marion McEvoy https://marionmcevoy.com/Glenmalure Lodge https://glenmalurelodge.ie/Glenmalure hostel (the former home of Dr Kathleen Lynn) https://www.hostelworld.com/hostels/p/15098/glenmalure-hostel-hostelling-international/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Glendalough is one of Ireland’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Its medieval monastery and stunning mountain landscape attract around one million tourists every year. However behind the postcard-perfect scenery lies a history that rarely makes it into the tourist brochures.In this episode, I veer off the well-trodden paths to uncover the real stories of Glendalough: stories of violence, exploitation, and transformation that have shaped the valley for centuries. This includes its early medieval history as a 'military industrial complex' and a very special interview with Robbie Carter - a former lead miner in the area.This episode will change the way you see one of Ireland's most famous historic sites.The podcast features Frank Tracy, Graeme Warren, Margaret Duff Garvey Pat Reid and Robbie Carter. A special thanks to Deirdre Burns.This episode was funded by Wicklow Co Council and the Heritage Council.Sound by Kate Dunlea. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vast, windswept, and seemingly untouched—the landscape around the Sally Gap in Wicklow is a place where history appears to vanish into the heather and mist. With no houses and few traces of human settlement, this moorland feels like a true wilderness.Yet, the story of this landscape is one forged by ancient forces, human ambition, and exploitation.In this episode, I continue my journey down the Wicklow Military Road into what some have called one of Ireland’s last great wildernesses, uncovering a hidden history that stretches back thousands of years.Written, Produced & Narrated by Fin DwyerSound by Kate DunleaFeaturing: Frank Tracy, Deirdre Burns, Faith Wilson, Michael Fewer, Graeme Warren & Margaret Duff Garvey.This episode was funded by Wicklow Co Council and The Heritage Council.This year marks the 200th anniversary of the death of Michael Dwyer, the rebel who played a pivotal role in the history of the Wicklow Military Road. On August 23rd, 2025, a special event is being organised to explore Michael Dwyer, his life, and his legacy. Find out more here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/michael-dwyer-200-registration-1358221520129?aff=oddtdtcreator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
michael gilman
Fin, why were Irish immigrants antisemitic? My g.g grandfather came over, to Maine then down to Boston, from Kinsale in the 1830s.
Josie Van Embden
thanks for a wonderful episode. I grew up in roundwood and before that at bahana in enniskerry. my mum worked in glencree and I played in the ruins of the barracks there. so this was fascinating.
Andrew X Brown
Finn, I am a blow in to Monnenroe. My mother moved here after getting one of the first legal separations, all she could afford close to Dublin. now she needs help. It was amazing hearing these letters from normal people. The locals listen also and knew who you were.
J Coker
appears in a couple of flashman books by George McDonald Fraser
Monica Johnson
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