Episode 12 of Irish History Tales explores the Great Revolt of 1173–1174 and the profound impact it had on the Norman Conquest of Ireland. While Henry II battles rebellion across his Angevin Empire including revolts led by his own sons, the intervention of King Louis VII of France, and the invasion of England by William the Lion of Scotland, makes the Norman position in Ireland suddenly vulnerable.

The episode examines how Henry's crisis forced Strongbow and Hugh de Lacy to divert men and resources away from Ireland, creating an opportunity for Gaelic resistance. We follow Donal Mór O'Brien's offensive against Norman positions around Kilkenny, and the growing instability facing the Norman settlements.

We also explore the fascinating story of Donal Kavanagh, son of Dermot MacMurrough. Once an ally of Strongbow, Donal breaks with the Normans and emerges as a leading figure in the Gaelic resistance, launching devastating attacks against Norman settlements in Leinster. Along the way, we examine the deaths of Murchad MacMurrough and Tiernan O'Rourke, and consider how these events may have influenced Donal's changing attitude towards Norman rule.

As Henry II fights for survival overseas and Gaelic rulers seize the initiative at home, the future of Ireland looks remarkably uncertain. For the first time since the arrival of the Normans, it appears possible that the conquest could be reversed.