The IRA's Great Escape: Mountjoy Jail, 1925

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 Dwyer Sound by Kate Dunlea Featuring: 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 Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In 1800, in the wake of the 1798 Rebellion, the British military began construction of the Wicklow Military Road. Designed to bring control to the so-called “bandit country” of the Wicklow Mountains, this road now winds through some of the most remote and picturesque landscapes in Ireland. Its history is as dramatic as the scenery it traverses. Built in an Ireland still reeling from insurrection, the road has, over the past two centuries, borne witness to some of the most remarkable—and often dark—chapters in our history. From disappearances during the Irish Civil War to a German war cemetery, the Wicklow Military Road is a route steeped in intrigue and untold stories. This podcast explores this road through Ireland's bandit country. Thanks to Michael Fewer, Margaret Duff Garvey, Joan Kavanagh, Faith Wilson & Frank Tracy. Special Thanks to Deirdre Burns. Written & Produced: Fin Dwyer Narration: Fin Dwyer Sound: Kate Dunlea Funded by Wicklow Co Co & 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 Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Between 1911 and 1926, the Irish Protestant population fell by over 30%. This podcast explores why this happened, as well as how the majority who remained adapted to life in the Free State. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The history of the Great Hunger is often recounted through statistics and impersonal narratives. There are many reasons for this, but one significant factor is that many survivors were reluctant to share their stories of survival. In this episode, based on letters from the 1840s, I uncover a challenging chapter in our history. Among the stories recounted is that of widow Elisa Kelly, who was exploited by her neighbors, and John Molloy, who was left with no option but to beg for help. Their stories may be inglorious, but they reveal the harsh realities of life during the Famine. Additional Narrations: Aidan Crowe & Therese Murray Sound by Kate Dunlea Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Typhoid Mary has inspired books, movies, and even a Marvel character, but the history of the Irish woman behind the name is less well known. Mary Mallon was born in County Tyrone in the late 19th century before emigrating to the US. While she initially enjoyed a successful career as a cook, she became the central figure in a major scandal when she was accused of spreading typhoid. This podcast tells her story. This podcast is the first episode of Season II of "Transatlantic," a new show I make with historian Damian Shiels on Irish-American history. You can subscribe to Transatlantic https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/irishhistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.