The History of Ireland
Kevin Dolan
Please take this quick survey to help support the show: http://bit.ly/thehistoryofireland-surveyThe Irish Republic's foundation is one hell of a story, complete with spying secretaries, pig thieves, politicians, poets, school teachers and the world's biggest empire. In quick, bite-sized episodes, we're going to explore the causes, characters and aftermath of the Irish War of Independence.Support the show through Patreon for bonus content and ad free listening!www.patreon.com/thehistoryofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP8 — A Lost Story of how the God's Fought Over Newgrange
In this episode we look at the history behind how The Wooing of Étain was uncovered and then dive into the story itself — as the Dagda swindles a poor man out of his home in Newgrange.Imagery for the episode, used with permission, is Boann Bru Na Boinne by the iconic Jim FitzPatrick. You can view more of Jim's stunning work and purchase prints at jimfitzpatrick.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP7 — Were the Fomorians a Metaphor for Vikings?
In this episode we finally get to the big clash between the Fomorians and the Tuatha Dé. It's a brutal and beautiful piece of literature. It also may have been inspired by Viking invasions...Imagery for the episode, used with permission, is Lugh Attacks the Fomor by the iconic Jim FitzPatrick. You can view more of Jim's stunning work and purchase prints at jimfitzpatrick.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP6 – The Second Battle of Moytura: Pt 3
In this episode we follow one of the strangest (and maybe raunchiest) moments in ancient Irish stories as the Dagda prepares for battle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP5 – The Second Battle of Moytura: Pt 2
In this episode we greet the arrival of Lugh as the Tuatha Dé prepare for battle. We also dive into what the characters of Lugh and Bres tell us about what the ancient Irish looked for in a leader. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP4 – The Second Battle of Moytura: Pt 1
In this episode we look at life in Ireland under the rulership of Bres the Beautiful and learn who is father was, as well as explore what a story of Dian Cecht can tell us about ancient Irish writers. Cover image is an AI created image of Eriu staring out to sea. What do we think of something like this? I'm struggling to find good cover imagery for these stories so this feels a nice solution, but I'm also unsure and keen on to hear ye're thoughts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more
S3 EP3 – The Coming of the Tuatha Dé
In this episode we dive into the First Battle of Moytura, telling the story of how the Tuatha Dé came to Ireland.If you'd like to dive into the originals, check out UCC's CELT resource.The image is one of the Cong Stone Circles in Mayo, which is said to be linked to the Battle of Moytura. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP2 – The Filí
In this episode we look at the people behind the Irish mythological stories and explore how the stories we have today are a fascinating blend of Irish paganism and Christian pseudo-history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S3 EP01 – Newgrange, The Celts & The People of the Sidbh
It's a whole new season and we're doing something a little different – diving into the rich tapestry of Irish mythology. But before we jump into tales of gods and heroes, we need to set the stage. In this episode, we're exploring the uniquely Irish concept of the Sidhe looking at everything from Newgrange's Neolithic passage tombs to the arrival of the Celts, unpacking how these ancient structures shaped Ireland's mythological landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informatio
S2 EP30 – The Aftermath of the Irish Civil War
In this episode we look at the aftermath of the Irish Civil War and how it's still influencing Irish politics to this day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP29 – How The Free State Failed Women
In this episode, we look at how Maggie Doherty and the McCarthy sisters were totally and utterly failed by the Free State and how their stories highlight how women suffered due to the conflict.Content Warning: This episode does discuss sexual assault. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP28 – The End of the Irish Civil War
In this episode we look at the last dying gasps of the Irish Civil War and dive into the psychological genius of De Valera's order to dump arms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP27 – The Death of Liam Lynch
"I'm glad one of the old crowd got me" is what Liam Lynch said after he was shot in the Knockmealdown Mountains and in this episode we look at the dying breaths of both the anti-Treaty IRA and it's iron willed leader Liam Lynch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP26 – Kerry's Month of Terror
Irish men blowing each other to smithereens – there's a reason March 1923 is often referred to as the month of terror. In this episode we explore the Ballyseedy Massacre and the other similarly gruesome events that occurred in Kerry towards the end of the Irish Civil War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP25 – A Guerrilla Winter
In this episode we look at the winter of 1922 into 1923 – time when the Civil War became increasingly bitter and the anti-Treaty side became more and more desperate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP24 – The Life & Times of Harry Boland with Shite Talk History
In this episode we join forces with Shite Talk History to tell the story of the amazing Harry Boland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP23 – Best Friends & Executions
In this episode we explore a friendship that ended in executions that was said to have "killed the new State at its birth.“ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP22 – The History of Halloween
In this episode we celebrate 1,000,000 downloads by going down the supernatural rabbit hole that is the history of Halloween.From druids to evil spirts, from Christianity to capitalism, Halloween is a fascinating mix of ancient folk traditions, religion and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP21 – The Irish Free State Is Born & A TD Is Murdered
In this episode we look at December 6th, the day the Irish Free State official came into being. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP20 – The First Attempt At An Irish Constitution
In this episode we look at the creation of Irish Free State constitution which was brought into law on December 6th 1922. Here's the Radiolab episode on the Irish electoral system that I mention in the show:https://radiolab.org/podcast/tweak-vote Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP19 – Weaponising the Sacraments
In this episode we look at how the Catholic Church worked to bring about peace in 1922, choosing the Treaty and turning against the anti-Treaty Republicans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP18 – The Executions Begin
In this episode we look at the first series of executions carried out by the Free State in November 1922.The image used for this episode is of Erskine Childers and his wife Molly, on their yacht the Asgard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP17 – Roadside Murders
In this episode we tell the sad story of Tadhg Kennefick and try to make sense of the horrific violence of the Irish Civil war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP16 – The Special Powers Act
In this episode we look at what has been described as one of the most draconian pieces of legislation ever to be passed in a liberal democracy and see how the Special Powers Act was just one of the many ways that Ulster Unionists held on to power. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP15 – How Collins Approached Northern Ireland
In this episode we look at the second failed Craig-Collins pact and try to untangle the complicated web that was Michael Collins's approach to the North in 1922. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Interview – Alexander Poots On The Writing Northern Ireland
From CS Lewis's bourgeois Protestant upbringing to Seamus Heaney's beautiful attempts at understanding his home, this episode I interview Alexander Poots author of The Strangers' House: Writing Northern Ireland and ask what Northern Irish writers can teach us about the history of the area. Sign up to Patreon for the full interview. You can read more about the book, here:https://www.twelvebooks.com/titles/alexander-poots/the-strangers-house/9781538701584/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy fo
S2 EP14 – The McMahon Murders
In this episode we look at the failed attempts to bring peace to Northern Ireland in 1922 and how this affected one poor family in particular. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP13 – Drawing the Border
What's this? A new episode! Finally! Thanks so much for baring with me. Happy to say the show is back and raring to go. This episode takes a look at how the Northern Irish border was drawn and explains how we landed on the six counties. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP12 – Young Lawlor & The Legalities of Conflict
In this episode we investigate how the anti-Treaty IRA were coping, as well as the Army Emergency Power Resolution and its ramifications. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP11 – The Man Who Wasn't Collins
In this episode we take a look at WT Cosgrave – the conservative witty Dubliner who replaced Arthur Griffith and Michael Collins to become the leader of the fledgling state. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP10 – The Funeral of Michael Collins
In this episode we examine the ramifications of Michael Collins death — his funeral the reprisals that followed, and who would take his place. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP09 – Béal na Bláth
In this episode we explore one of the most tragic (and hotly debated) moments of the Irish Civil War, the death of Michael Collins. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP08 – The Limerick Line, Rochestown & Griffith's Last Days
A jam packed episode as we explore what was going on in and around the first week of August 1922. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Interview – The Lives of Liam Lynch & Rory O'Conner with Gerard Shannon
Loved this chat with Gerard Shannon, a fascinating historian currently writing a book on Liam Lynch. Over the course of the interview we get deep into the minds of the two leading figures of the anti-Treaty IRA. As ever the full hour long interview is available to Patreon subscribers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP07 – The Battle of Dublin
After the Four Courts was blown to smithereens fighting continued for several days in and around Dublin. In this episode we imagine what it must have been like for those hold up in the hotels, shops and homes transformed into military bases — and what it must have been like for those attacking them.The image shows the Gresham Hotel in flames. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP06 – The Bombing of the Four Courts
In this episode we look at the event traditionally viewed as the start of the Irish Civil War. These first unsteady and unwilling steps into civil war paved the way for the brutality that would soon follow. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Interview – The Diaries of Michael Collins with Anne Dolan & Will Murphy
Today on the centenary of the death of Michael Collins I'm sharing excerpts from an interview with Anne Dolan and Will Murphy authors of Michael Collins: The Man & The Revolution and Days in the Life, Reading the Michael Collins Diaries 1918-1922. Reading the Michael Collins Diaries just came out last week and it was fascinating to unpack what Anne and Will learned while putting the new book together. Subscribe to Patreon to listen to the full episode. Enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/p
S2 EP05 – The Assassination of Sir Henry Wilson
The death of Sir Henry Wilson is a complicated affair that gives us a fascinating insight into the intersectional nature of the Ireland at the time. Whether figuring out who ordered the hit or examining those involved — nothing is simple or straightforward.The photo is of Reginald Dunne. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP04 – Packs & Politics
In this episode we look at the election of 1922, which despite Sinn Fein's best efforts set a positive democratic tone for Irish politics for years to come. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Podcast Announcement — Bonus Content, Ad Free listening & more
After chatting to a whole heap of listeners I've decided to bite the bullet and start a Patreon page. Though I'm dubious of podcasts constantly bugging listeners asking for money this will hopefully be a way to reward my most dedicated listeners while funding bigger and better things for the podcast. It'll be our own secret organisation — like the IRB but a little less violent. The first piece of bonus content is an interview with Professor Colum Kenny. We chatted all things Arthur Griffith and
S2 EP03 – Wade Through Irish Blood
In this episode we look at the anti-Treaty IRA and ask whether Éamon de Valera could have done more to stop the Irish Civil War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP02 – Sister Against Sister
In this episode we look at how the Treaty split Cumann na mBan and the implications this had for Irish women's movement in the new Irish Free State. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S2 EP01 – How To Start A Country
The start of a new season! We continue our story and see how we moved slowly from the end of The War of Independence into the Irish Civil War. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP76 – The Treaty Debates: Part 3
In this episode the Dail finally takes a vote on the Treaty. We look at the speeches that came before and after the vote, and how they set the scene for a nationwide split.Keen eared listeners may hear some discrepancies in audio, please bear with me as I set up my new studio! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP75 – The Treaty Debates: Part 2
In this episode we look at the Romantic Moralists versus the National Pragmatists and explore the reason why those against the treaty, were so very against it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP74 – The Treaty Debates: Part 1
In this episode we see how the Second Dail reacted to the Anglo-Irish Debates, covering the first half of the Treaty Debates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP73 – Dev's Inferno
In this episode we look at the immediate aftermath of the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty, specifically looking at how Eamon De Valera responded to what he saw as a monumental betrayal. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP72 – 2am on a Tuesday PT2
In the second part of our episode on the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty we look at the very last moments of the treaty negotiation and break down what the Irish delegates were actually being asked to sign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP71 – 2am on a Tuesday PT1
In this episode get comfortable as the fly on the wall for the last of the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations. Ready yourself for a long day of Welsh Wizardry, fierce debate, and difficult decisions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP70 – One Last Dash Home
In this episode we race back to Dublin for what turned out to be the last Dail Cabinet meeting before the signing of the treaty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP69 – Wrestling with a Wizard
In this episode we see how the pieces started slowly falling into place for the final treaty. We also look at one of the most controversial meetings of Arthur Griffith's career and ask whether or not he was duped by the Welsh Wizard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP68 – Squabbling On All Sides
In this episode we explore the internal conflict on both the Irish and British sides of the negotiation table. Check out Gretchen Frieman's amazing book The Treaty for more information on the talks. Image is of Michael Collins leaving 10 Downing Street during the talks from Getty Images. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP67 – The First Two Weeks of Negotiations
Be warned, this is a whopper of an episode. Today we get deep into the nitty gritty of the first two weeks of the treaty negotiations. Photo is of Lloyd George and Lord Birkenhead coming out of 10 Downing Street during the treaty negotiations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP66 – Butter & Beautiful Eyes
In this episode we introduce the British delegation and kick off the Anglo-Irish Treaty negotiations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP65 – The Myth of Michael Collins
Of all the figures of the Irish War of Independence none has been mythologised as much as Michael Collins. Today, we examine why... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP64 – Who Where The Plenipotentiaries?
In this episode we continue our examination of the plenipotentiaries, who they were and why Dev chose them. Image: George Gavan Duffy, Michael Collins and Arthur Griffith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP63 – Plenipotentiaries & The Players Left Off The Pitch
In this episode we introduce the men that would be sent over to London to negotiate with the British, and ask the question why did Éamon de Valera not take part in the Anglo-Irish Treaty Negotiations. Cover photo: George Gavan Duffy, Erskine Childers, Robert Barton and Arthur Griffith in a group. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP62 – On A Merry Go Round With Dev
Today we continue our look at the political negotiations that went on between Dev and Lloyd George in the build up to the treaty negotiations.Stress Dreams by Four in the Morning (if anyone is interested)https://orcd.co/3vlq6rn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP61 – The Fighting Men Sit Still
In this episode we ask what did the men of the IRA and their leaders got up to during the Truce period? The answer starts to shed light on the division within the movement and help us lay down the foundations for one of the saddest parts of Irish history. Image is of Richard Mulcahy. UCD Digital Library, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP60 – Dev Sits Down With The Welsh Wizard
In this episode we follow Eamon De Valera as he steps into 10 Downing Street to negotiate with David Lloyd George, as the two men try to figure out what it is the other wants and how best to build on the Truce. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP59 – The Truce
Exactly one hundred years ago today, at 12 o'clock in the afternoon a truce between British forces and the Irish Republican Army came into effect. This truce effectively ended the Irish War of Independence, though know one knew that for sure at the time. In this episode we look at how the truce talks began and how the Irish population reacted to the prospect of a summer free of violence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP58 – The Burning of the Custom House
In this episode we ask whether the only military operation discussed and approved by the Dail was a propaganda masterstroke or a military blunder... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP57 – Ambushes, Elections & Stalemates
In this episode we look at everything going on in March, April and May of 1921. These last months were the bloodiest of the war and both sides were starting to struggle. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP56 – The Biggest Lie of the Irish Revolution Pt. 2
In the second part of our episode on violence against women during the Irish War of Independence we look sexual violence and why it was grossly underreported during the period. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP55 – The Biggest Lie of the Irish Revolution Pt. 1
In the first of a two part episode we explore violence against women during the Irish War of Independence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP54 – Spies & Informers Beware
In this episode we interrogate the relationship between the IRA and the Irish public. From farmers happily donating their hard earned cash to informers shot and left as a warning for others, people across Ireland interacted with the IRA in very different ways. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP53 – The Battle at the Farm House
In this episode we explore how the violence War of Independence ramped up in 1921 and explore how one safe house in Clonmult turned out to be anything but safe.The image from this episode is borrowed from The Battle of Clonmult by Tom O'Neil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP52 – Guess Who Just Got Back Today?
In this episode Eamon de Valera finally returns to Ireland and we look at the effect this had on the movement... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP51 – Is There Anything To Be Said For Saying Another Mass?
In today's episode we look at the very first tentative steps towards a truce. Spoiler alert, it all falls a part and paves the way for bloodiest months of the entire conflict. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP50 – The Burning of Cork
In this episode drunken arsons come face to face with courageous fire fighters in one of the most cataclysmic reprisals of the war. It really did act as a violent full stop to 1920. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP49 – The Kilmichael Ambush
We are back people! After a little bit of a Christmas break we're ready and raring to go. In this episode we take a detailed look at how a bunch of 20 something year old's from Cork wiped out what was meant to be one of the British forces most elite unites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Quiet Over Here
Totally non-history related content, but it's for a good cause! My other project, the band Four in the Morning is releasing a Christmas single to raise money for the St Vincent De Paul. It's a very 2020 song about being stuck in Melbourne and not getting home for Christmas. Have a listen and if you'd like to donate please purchase the track at: https://fourinthemorning.bandcamp.com/track/quiet-over-hereAnd we'll get back to the history soon! Would also love to hear what you think about these sne
S1 EP48 – Pt 3. The Evening of Bloody Sunday
In this the last of our series on Bloody Sunday 1920 we look at what happened in Dublin Castle on the evening of the 21st, try and uncover who of the IRA's targets were actually guilty and examine the wider effects of Bloody Sunday on The Irish War of Independence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP47 – Pt 2: The Evening of Bloody Sunday
Today we look at one of the most brutal reprisals carried out by the British so far in the War of Independence. One that left a distinct mark on the GAA and shook Dublin to its very core. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP46 – Pt 1: The Morning of Bloody Sunday
In this the first of a three parts, we look at how Ormond Winter took the intelligence fight to the IRA and how in retaliation they carried out the biggest single attack Dublin saw throughout the war. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP45 – The Ballad of Kevin Barry
In the last episode we look at the Irish approach to the war in quite broad strokes. Today we dive into the specifics, detailing a raid on a group of RIC men guarding a bread lorry and then looking at the propaganda battle that followed. A propaganda battle focused on one 18 year old medical student — Kevin Barry.If you're interested in the version of the Ballad of Kevin Barry that was performed at the end of the episode you can check out more of Ciaran Boyle's music here: https://open.spotify.c
S1 EP44 – The Men & Women of the Revolution
In this episode we look at the structure of the IRA and Cumann na mBan, and how they worked against the British in the later half of 1920. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP43 – The Sack of Balbriggan
In this episode we look at how a few pints of a Monday night turned into one of the most infamous reprisals events of 1920.For further information, check out the full talk from Jim Walsh of Balbriggran Historicla here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Gs6hfcBCMo&feature=emb_title Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP42 – Seventy Four Days
In this episode we introduce Terence MacSwiney, the Lord Mayor of Cork who became famous all over the world after he went on a hunger strike in protest against his arrest by the British. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP41 – The Connaught Rangers Mutiny
This week we travel to India and look at the complex interactions between the Irish and India, all through the lens of a remarkable (but admittedly inconsequential) mutiny on June 28th 1920 in Jalandhar, India. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP40 – Tudor's Beasts: The Auxiliaries Arrive
In this episode we discuss the second paramilitary force set up in Ireland to combat the IRA. An elite squad of veteran officers the Auxies as they became known were a step above the Black and Tans, and were maybe even more deadly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP39 – The Belfast Boycott
In this episode we look at how the Dail met to decide what to do about the sectarian violence raging through Ulster in the summer of 1920. Their decision? Well let's just say it didn't have quite the affect they were hoping for. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP38 – A Summer of Riots
Bang on 100 years ago on July 21st 1920, riots erupted in the Belfast shipyards. This week we investigate what was the cause and continue to look at Northern Ireland throughout the 1920s. We also introduce the Ancient Order of Hibernians, discuss pogroms and try to untangle a very complicated summer.www.thehistoryofireland.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Celebrations, Illustrations & Snazzy Merch
We've hit over 150,000 downloads and to celebrate I've teamed up with the amazing Luke Healy to put together some kick ass merch.It's a great way to help support the show, plus who doesn't love a historically themed tshirt? As always, keen to hear what you folks think.<br>Check it all out at:https://thehistoryofireland.bigcartel.com<br> Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP37 – The Ulster Question
The Ulster Question, as it was known, is a tough one to crack. In this episode we try and unpack the complexities of the region and explain why it wasn't until the summer of 1920 that Ulster really started to feel the impact of the Irish War of Independence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 EP36 – The Listowel Mutiny
The summer of 1920 was not all that different from 2020. In this episode we kick off that scary summer with a look at the Listowel Mutiny where a few good RIC men argued against the violence being asked of them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP35 – Will The Real John Jameson Please Stand Up?
Mustaches, mistaken outbursts and the truth behind John Jameson. In this episode we look at how the Irish intelligence network bested one of Britain's top spies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP34 – John Jameson
In this episode we delve back into the Intelligence side of the war to investigate how Michael Collins and his men went about recruiting potential allies from Britain. A complicated and careful process, where things often weren't as they seemed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E33 – The Munitions Strike
In this episode we look at the Irish Labour movement in 1920 an how a few stubborn train drivers brought the country to a standstill in a bid to hinder British attempts at regaining control over the country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP32 – The Kidnapped General
In this episode we see how a friendly day of fishing turned into a high profile kidnapping and a PR win for the IRA. As well as explore why the fate of Brigadier General Cuthbert Lucas is the perfect way to demonstrate both the IRA's power and limitations as of June of 1921. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1EP31 – The Flying Columns
In this episode we look at how a walk through the Limerick countryside led to a revolutionary new kind of unit that were vital in the IRA's survival against the British. Yep, today look at how the Flying Columns were formed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E30 – Theory & Instinct
In this episode we look at some the factors that influenced how the IRA developed their fighting style against the British. To do this we jump back all the way to 1889 and travel South Africa. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
29 – The Murder of Tomas Mac Curtain
In this episode we hold an imaginary trial to decide who should be held responsible for the murder of Tomas MacCurtain, the Lord Mayor of Cork. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E28 - Who Were The Black & Tans?
In this episode we examine the men who made up the notorious Black & Tans and the impact they had when they first arrived in Ireland. There has been a lot of discussion around these men in the last few months so it was fascinating to dive in and see who they really were. Criminals? Shell shocked war vets? Or just opportunistic mercenaries? Like all things, the answer is always more complicated than it seems but is vital in understanding what happened next in the War of Independence. Support
S1E27 - The Men Behind The Black & Tans
This episode we ask the question, who created the Black and Tans? The men behind the British policy in 1919 and 1920 did not want to believe they were at war in Ireland and instead chose to push the narrative that Sinn Fein and the IRA were a simple "murder gang". So rather than sending in the army they further militarised the police in Ireland. Yep, in this episode we look at how David Lloyd George and Winston Churchill created one of the most hated groups in Irish history. Support The History
Questions & Answers
So I've had a few episodes about the show, and a few random ones, so I thought I'd answer them all in one episode before we get back into the thick of it. Hope you enjoy and if you've any other questions get in touch at historyofirelandpodcast@gmail.comSupport The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Pagans, Christians & Wrens
Did someone say special Christmas episode? In a fortuitous coincidence it's the 26th episode on the 26th of December, which happens to be Wren Day! So we're taking a break from the War of Independence and exploring the weird semi pagan world of Wran Boys!Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E25 - Burning Down The Barracks
It's 1920 and The War of Independence is really heating up. We look at how the IRA up the ante and took the fight to the RIC, while also examine the British's slightly unfocused approach to the increased violence Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E24 - Fascists & County Councils
1920 was a year that really saw The Irish War of Independence tilt into full swing. But just as important as the military aspect, was the politics and one often overlooked side of this was the local elections that were carried out in January and June of 1920. As well as that we introduce Eoin O'Duffy – a Republican hero and Ireland's answer to Mussolini. In the episode I make a shameless plug for my band's new EP. You can check it out at the link below, if you're so inclined. Listen to Four In T
S1E23 - An Ambush at Ashtown
In this episode we explore the ambush of Lord French in December 1919. It shook the country and set the scene for the escalation in the conflict in 1920. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E22 - Not The 1919 News
First off, I'm so sorry that this episode has taken so long. As life gets a little more hectic in the real world I'll be shifting towards fortnightly episodes. Hope you don't mind. With a cruel sense of irony, in this delayed episode, I'll be discussing The Irish Bulletin. A Republican newspaper that did not miss a single issue throughout the entire war. Go figure. It was vital to the war effort and written by an eclectic mix of fanatical Catholics, switched on secretaries and famous novelists.
S1E21 - We Did Not & Do Not Know How To Act
In this episode we explore the British confused Irish policy throughout 1919 and explore what finally convinced them to ban the Dáil. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E20 - The Squad & The Dog
In this episode we discuss the founding of The Squad, the IRA's team of professional assassins, and look at how they botched their very fist mission. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E19 - The Spy In The Castle
This week we finally introduce David Nelligan, one of the Irish Intelligence networks most successful spies and learn how Michael Collins convinced him to turn double agent. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E18 - A Night In The Barracks
In this episode we introduce the spy Ned Broy and tell the story of how he snuck Michael Collins into the G Divisions headquarters one April night in 1919.Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E17 - Librarians & G Men
In this, the second episode on the the Irish intelligence network we meet the men who became undercover operatives inside the G Division, as well as the amazing librarian who helped introduce them to Collins and his team. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E16 - Spying Secretaries
How does a small island go about defeating one of the biggest empires in the world? By outsmarting them, over and over again. In this episode, the first of three parts, we explore the the intelligence warfare of The War of Independence and the amazing women who were perfectly placed to spy on the British. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E15 - Courts, Loans and the Counter State
In this episode we explore the nitty gritty of getting a government off the ground. You need propaganda, money and proof that you can run things smoothly. In 1919 the Dáil was working on all three. So strap in and get excited for government loans, court systems and more. Don't worry it's fascinating, trust me. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E14 - Back In The USS Limerick
This is the second part of our two part episode on the Limerick Soviet. After the death of Bobby Byrne things really kicked off, with Limerick creating it's own strange little socialist mini-state. There's one mess up of a sentence in there, 10 points to Gryffindor if you can spot it. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E13 - The Breakout of Bobby Byrne
In this, the first of two episodes looking at the Limerick Soviet we follow how one angry postman kicked off a strange and short lived mini socialist state in Limerick. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E12 - Coming To America
In this episode we follow Eamon De Valera after his breakout from Lincoln Gaol. What does he do now that he can return to Ireland, well he decides to head off to the United States. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E11 - Going Solo
The War of Independence is finally kicking off. In this episode we look at the moment that's gone down (rightly or wrongly) as the first incident of the whole thing. We also investigate the difficulties in a decentralised military force like the Irish Volunteers/IRA and introduce some of the guys on the ground. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E10 - Are We At War Yet?
In this episode we study the structure of the Irish Volunteers, charting how their increase aggression in 1918 and 1919 eventually led to a war finally kicking off. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E9 - The Big Fellow
Wild. Studious. Angry. Playful. Friendly. Violent. Michael Collins was a series of contradictions. In this episode we explore the early life of Ireland's most famous accountant and one of the most interesting characters in this whole story. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E8 - The Long Fellow
In this episode explore the formative years of Eamon de Valera – one of the most influential men in modern Irish history. From prayer boy to politician, we examine how a teacher from Limerick turned himself into the figurehead of the post-Rising rebel movement. Support The History of Ireland by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/historyofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E7 - The First Dáil
Sinn Fein had won the election and now it was time to start taking control of the country. Even if almost half of them were locked up. The First Dáil was the Irish Republic's first official step and would lead to all kinds of conflict... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E6 - On The Campaign Trail
In this episode we go all West Wing on 1918 and look at the election that would completely transform the Irish political landscape. Finally, Sinn Fein move from the fringes to the forefront, while the IPP disappear into the history books.Support the show through Patreon for bonus content and ad free listening!www.patreon.com/thehistoryofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E5 - Boy Oh Boy A Boycott
After successfully stopping conscription Sinn Fein and the Irish Volunteers started increasing pressure on the British. This led to an inevitable clash with the Royal Irish Constabulary.In this episode we investigate the RIC, looking at how Sinn Fein turned the public against them and how this was an integral first step towards all out hostility.Support the show through Patreon for bonus content and ad free listening!www.patreon.com/thehistoryofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for
S1E4 - Oh No We Won't Go
By 1918 Sinn Fein were on the rise. Home Rule had come to a stand still and the population had become more and more radicalised. All Sinn Fein needed was one last thing to unify the country against the British.Did someone say conscription? Yep, that'll do.This week, we look at the Conscription Crisis of 1918 and hear one of the big hits from that year.Thanks to Ciaran Boyle for extra help with the music this episode. You can listen to his great EP, About Time here or follow him on Facebook.Suppo
S1E3 - Poorly Managed Mayhem
Cartoonists in love, tricksy Welsh wizards and a fickle public. In this episode we look at how the plucky little 1916 Rising went from being a haphazard mess to one of Ireland's most important historic events, and how this changed the radical fringe group Sinn Fein into a political heavyweight.Support the show through Patreon for bonus content and ad free listening!www.patreon.com/thehistoryofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1E2 - Two Very Different Approaches
Not dissimilar to Brexit and arguments over the backstop, the Home Rule Crisis was one of the biggest political nightmares of its day. In fact, it could very well have led to a British Civil War if World War 1 hadn't interrupted. Talk about out of the frying pan and into the fire.In this episode we look at the mess that was the Home Rule Crisis, the influence of World War 1, and how it all led to the 1916 Rising.Support the show through Patreon for bonus content and ad free listening!www.patreon
S1E1 - Setting The Scene
In this the inaugural episode the parties, players and movements bouncing around Ireland in the early 1900s are introduced.Subscribe for more episodes coming soon.Support the show through Patreon for bonus content and ad free listening!www.patreon.com/thehistoryofireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.