About this episode

This episode explores the brutal reality of siege warfare in 17th-century Ireland, focusing on the devastating conflicts and the infamous massacre at Drogheda.

Between 1641 and 1653, Ireland was engulfed by devastating war. It was a period of extraordinary violence, famine and social collapse. The death toll was staggering. As many as 25% of the population may have perished. At the heart of this conflict was siege warfare. Across Ireland, towns, castles, forts and fortified houses came under attack. Some were taken by storm, while others were blockaded until starvation and disease did their work. Defenders faced cannon fire, tunnelling, psychological warfare and the terrifying prospect of what might happen if the walls were breached. Meanwhile, thousands of civilians had no escape and suffered appallingly. In this episode, I’m joined by historian Padraig Lenihan to explore the brutal reality of siege warfare in 17th-century Ireland. We look at why these conflicts were so destructive, how sieges were fought, and why warfare in Ireland was often more violent than in Britain during the same period. We also examine the infamous massacre at Drogheda, placing it in the wider context of the wars in Ireland and Britain, and asking whether it was exceptional or part of a broader pattern of violence. You can get Padraig’s book, Siege Warfare in…

People in this episode

Host: Fin Dwyer

Guest: Padraig Lenihan

Topics covered

• siege warfare
• 17th-century Ireland
• violence and famine
• Drogheda massacre
• military history
• social collapse

Keywords

• siege warfare
• Drogheda
• 17th century
• Irish history
• Padraig Lenihan
• violence
• famine
• social collapse

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Siege Warfare in Ireland, 1641-1653

Places: Ireland, Britain, Drogheda

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