In this podcast, Gerard Shannon discusses his biography of Rory O’Connor, a key figure in the Irish revolutionary period. He explores O’Connor’s journey from engineer to senior IRA leader and his involvement in the political and military struggles of the time. The interview examines the tensions that led to the Irish Civil War and O’Connor’s eventual execution. Gerard also reflects on the complexities of interpreting revolutionary figures and the continuing relevance of this period in Irish history.

In this episode, Rebecca Clarke examines the sinking of HMS India in 1915 and the extraordinary stories of the survivors who were interned in Norway. Drawing on family archives and personal letters, she reconstructs the experiences of these sailors during and after the sinking. The interview highlights lesser-known aspects of naval warfare and the long-term consequences for those involved. Rebecca also reflects on the importance of preserving personal histories in understanding the wider impact of war.

In this podcast, Patrick Taylor discusses his research into the experiences of shell-shocked servicemen returning to civilian life after the First World War. Drawing on archival sources from Britain and Australia, he examines issues of rehabilitation, family relationships and the role of charities and the state. The interview highlights the long-term impact of psychological trauma and the challenges faced by veterans and their families. Patrick also reflects on how attitudes towards mental health have evolved since the early twentieth century.