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5 of 32

The Hidden Rebels: Irish Women in the Jacobite Cause
Episode eleven of the new series of Pieces of History shines a light on the often-overlooked role of Irish women in Jacobite networks, revealing their significant yet underappreciated contributions to the cause. Far from passive observers, these women were active participants in the struggle to restore the Stuart monarchy, operating in a world of secrecy, strategy, and high stakes.Joining me is historian Dr. Frances Nolan, recipient of the SFI-IRC Pathway Fellowship at the UCD School of History in 2023, whose research brings fresh insight into the crucial - yet frequently underestimated - contributions of Irish women to the Jacobite movement. Together, we examine the strategies they employed, the dangers they faced, and the lasting impact of their actions.From clandestine communication to financial manoeuvring, these women were instrumental in the political and military efforts of the Jacobites. In this episode, we uncover their hidden stories, challenge traditional narratives, and explore how their influence shaped the course of history.Email: [email protected]: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypodDr. Frances Nolan:The Jacobite Duchess:: Frances Jennings, Duchess of Tyrconnell, c.1649-1731https://boydellandbrewer.com/9781783276141/the-jacobite-duchess/
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The Art of Heraldry
In episode ten of the new season of Pieces of History, we turn our attention to the ancient and intricate world of heraldry. This episode features an in-depth conversation with Dr. Paul Fox, whose fascinating journey from a career in medicine to heraldic and genealogical scholarship sheds light on the enduring power of symbols, identity, and tradition.Together, we explore the rich history of heraldry - from its medieval origins on the battlefield to its ceremonial and genealogical significance today. Dr. Fox unpacks the core elements of heraldic design, including the shield, crest, banner, badge, and supporters, explaining how each has evolved over centuries and what they represent.We also reflect on how public interest in heraldry is shifting in the modern age and discuss how new audiences are engaging with these historic emblems. For listeners curious to learn more, Dr. Fox offers thoughtful guidance on where to begin their own exploration of heraldry.What do these ancient symbols reveal about the people and societies that created them? And why do they still matter today? Join us as we uncover The Art of Heraldry.Email: [email protected]: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypodDr. Paul Fox:https://www.drpaulfoxfsa.com/
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Friar's Bush Graveyard
Episode nine of the new season of Pieces of History uncovers the rich and often haunting history of Ireland’s graveyards. In this episode, we explore Friar’s Bush Graveyard, one of Belfast’s oldest burial sites, and its deep connections to the city’s past.Joining me are Dr Deirdre Nic an tSionnaigh and John Bradbury from Cairde na Cille, a group dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Ireland’s graveyards. Together, we delve into the key moments that have defined Friar’s Bush - from its ancient origins and ties to the penal era to its role during the devastating cholera epidemics. We’ll also uncover the stories of notable individuals buried there and examine how this site serves as a vital link to Belfast’s history.What secrets lie beneath the headstones? And how does this graveyard reflect the broader history of Ireland and its people? In this episode, we reveal the remarkable stories, key events, and enduring significance of Friar’s Bush Graveyard.Email: [email protected]: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypodCairde na Cille:https://cairdenacille.org/
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Old Souls
Episode eight of the new season of Pieces of History explores the fascinating intersection of investigative journalism and the mysteries of reincarnation. Award-winning journalist and author Tom Shroder joins me to discuss Old Souls, his compelling book that follows the groundbreaking research of Dr. Ian Stevenson, a pioneer in the study of past-life memories.We’ll dive into Tom’s career in journalism, his firsthand experiences traveling to Lebanon and India to investigate extraordinary case studies, and the children whose detailed recollections of past lives defy explanation. What drew Tom to this subject? How did his journalistic approach shape his perspective on reincarnation? And what do these cases reveal about the nature of consciousness and identity?Join us as we uncover the remarkable stories at the heart of Old Souls and examine the enduring question - could we have lived before?Email: [email protected]: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypodOld Souls:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Old-Souls-Scientific-Search-Proof/dp/068485192X
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Eoin O'Duffy and the Blueshirts: Ireland's Fascist Gamble
Episode seven of the new season of Pieces of History takes us into the tumultuous world of early 20th-century Ireland, where revolution, political upheaval, and shifting ideologies shaped the nation’s future. In this episode, we examine the life and legacy of General Eoin O’Duffy - one of Ireland’s most controversial figures.Joining me is historian Jack Traynor, author of General Eoin O’Duffy: The Political Life of an Irish Firebrand. Together, we explore O’Duffy’s rise from his role in the Irish War of Independence and Civil War to his tenure as the first Commissioner of An Garda Síochána. We also examine his leadership of the Blueshirts, his embrace of fascist politics, and the broader European influences on his ideology.From revolutionary hero to political pariah, O’Duffy’s legacy remains divisive. In this episode, we uncover the complexities of his character, the turbulent era that shaped him, and how his actions reflected both Ireland’s struggles and the wider political currents of the 1930s.Email: [email protected]: Pieces of History podcastInstagram: @pieceofhistorypodGeneral Eoin O'Duffy: The Political Life of an Irish Firebrandhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/General-Eoin-ODuffy-Political-Firebrand/dp/1476693269
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