385. Saint Patrick: Slave, Rebel, & Ireland’s Patron Saint (Ep 3)

385. Saint Patrick: Slave, Rebel, & Ireland’s Patron Saint (Ep 3)

From Empire: World History by Goalhanger

August 9, 2026 · 55 min · Season 39 · Episode 3

About this episode

The episode explores the true history of Saint Patrick, debunking myths and discussing the scholarly status of Irish Christians in Rome.

Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated all over the world every year by the Irish diaspora, but what is the real history behind the patron saint of Ireland? How is the traditional story of his life almost entirely incorrect? And why were Irish people in Rome considered to be the most scholarly Christians?  In Episode 3 of this series, William Dalrymple and Anita Anand are joined by Irish historian Dáibhí Ó Cróinín to bust myths about Saint Patrick. Summer sale is here: get an annual Empire Club membership for an extra 20% off with code SUMMER26. That's ad-free listening, early-access, every bonus episode, and full access to our exclusive members' series. Sale ends August 31st, so grab it before summer's over.   For more Goalhanger Podcasts, head to www.goalhanger.com. Email: empire@goalhanger.com Instagram: @empirepoduk Blue Sky: @empirepoduk X: @empirepoduk Assistant Producer: Imogen Marriott Editor: Lorcan Moullier Social Producer: Charlie Johnson Producer: Anouska Lewis Executive Producer: Dom Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Hosts: William Dalrymple, Anita Anand

Guest: Dáibhí Ó Cróinín

Topics covered

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Goalhanger

Places: Ireland, Rome

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