Irish History Podcast

By 1855, over two million Irish people had fled Ireland to escape the devastation of the Great Hunger. The journeys of these emigrants were often harrowing, and the term "Coffin Ship" has become synonymous with their perilous crossings of the Atlantic.While the term evokes images of misery, what was the actual experience like? This episode, originally released over two years ago, reveals the reality of life at sea in the late 1840s and 1850s.It is centered around a conversation with historian Dr. Cian T. McMahon, author of the excellent book "The Coffin Ship."You can get a copy of The Coffin Ship - Life and Death at Sea here.

Being hard drinkers is one of the most common stereotypes of Irish people around the world. While Irish consumption of alcohol is nowhere near the highest in Europe, there is no question beer and pubs are deeply ingrained in our culture.In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Christina Wade, who recently published a book on the history of beer in Ireland, to explore the fascinating aspect of our history. Tracing the story back thousands of years, Christina takes you from medieval alehouse to the modern pubs exploring Ireland's enduring love affair with the pint!Get your copy of Christians book Filthy Queens: A History of Beer in Ireland.https://www.omahonys.ie/filthy-queens-a-history-of-beer-in-ireland-p-10604392.html

In May 1170, a small group of mercenaries landed in a remote corner of County Wexford, setting the stage for a dramatic chapter in Irish history. Just fourteen miles away, in the medieval city of Waterford, their arrival sparked intense debate and uncertainty. How would the city react to this looming threat? What unfolded was a real-life medieval epic of siege, invasion, and conquest that would forever change the course of Ireland. Join me as we journey back to the 12th century and explore this gripping story, brought to life with immersive soundscapes. Experience the tension, the battles, and the sieges that defined Ireland's history for centuries.Sound by Kate DunleaAdditional Narration by Aidan CroweSupport my research and get an ad-free episode at https://patreon.com/irishpodcast

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Over a century after his death, Michael Collins remains one of Irish history's most iconic figures. Yet, his life and untimely death are still shrouded in myth and conspiracy. In this compelling episode, I am joined by historians Dr. Brian Hanley and John Dorney to peel back the layers of Collins' life to reveal the true history behind the myths.Whether you view Collins as a hero or a controversial figure, this episode promises to challenge your perceptions and offer fresh insights into his complex legacy. It also explores how Neil Jordan's 1996 movie and various conspiracy theories continue to distort the history of this revolutionary leader.Supporters of the show at Patreon.com/irishpodcast have exclusive access to two series with Dr. Brian Hanley:The Irish Civil WarThe TroublesListen to a full episode with John Dorney on Henry Wilson's Assassination.Check out John's website: The Irish Story. Brian also released a podcast series, 'The Dirty War,' available on Spotify.

Margaretta Eagar is a little-known figure in Irish history. In the early 20th century, she worked as a governess to the last Romanov Tsars of Russia. Eagar was just one of thousands of Irish people who emigrated to Imperial Russia. In this episode, historian Angela Byrne joins me to discuss why these Irish emigrants went east. Our fascinating conversation takes you from 17th-century political exiles to 19th-century tourists and, of course, the gripping story of Margaretta Eagar.Our discussion is based around Angela’s book Anarchy & Authority: Irish Encounters with Romanov Russia. You can get your copyhttps://www.lilliputpress.ie/products/anarchy-and-authority?srsltid=AfmBOoqFNCTW-O6aWqZx2WSnQ_L9j9ZCKLSfk55XAz_BqJWs1_TKzK2yAngela's website: www.historianka.comFollow Angela on Instagram @angela_historiankaSupport the Irish History Podcast and get an ad-free version of the show at https://patreon.com/irishpodcast