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Irish History Podcast

Irish History Podcast

By: Fin Dwyer
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From the Norman Invasion to the War of Independence, the Great Famine to the Troubles, the Irish History Podcast takes you on a journey through the most fascinating stories in Ireland's past. Whether it’s the siege of Dublin in 1171 or gun battles in the 1920s, the podcast vividly recreates a sense of time and place. Each episode is meticulously researched, creating character-driven narratives that are engaging and accessible for all.


Since the first episode was released back in 2010, the podcast has covered scores of captivating stories. Major multi-part series have explored the Great Famine, the Norman Invasion, and Irish involvement in the Spanish Civil War. If you are looking for standalone episodes, there are lots of great interviews with leading Irish historians covering topics from medieval sex magic to Irish connections in the Jack the Ripper murders!


Why not start with 'Three Days in July', an acclaimed mini-series from the summer of 2024. It explores the early years of the Troubles and the forgotten story of a young Londoner who was shot dead by the British Army in Belfast in 1970.

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Episodes
  • Banned: The Hidden History of Contraception in Ireland (Listener Favourite)

    Banned: The Hidden History of Contraception in Ireland (Listener Favourite)
    Jun 25 2025

    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.

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    28 mins
  • [Classic Replay] A Criminal Conversation: Affairs & Divorce in 1920s Ireland

    [Classic Replay] A Criminal Conversation: Affairs & Divorce in 1920s Ireland
    Jun 11 2025

    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.

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    41 mins
  • The Irish Wake: A History

    The Irish Wake: A History
    Jun 4 2025

    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 Dunlea


    Support the podcast and get an ad-free versions of the show at patreon.com/irishpodcast

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    50 mins
All stars
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For years Fin's podcast has been a flashlight into the forgotten corners of Ireland's history. I'm so happy it's now available on Audible. Níl an stair taobh thiar dúinn, piaraí sí isteach inár súile.

No Leprechauns Here

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Dr. Dwyer extensively researches his subjects and presents the contents in a fascinating and engaging manner! Highly recommend to anyone interested in history or human condition.

Appreciate the meticulous research and engaging presentation

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