Episode twenty-seven of the new series of Pieces of History takes us into the turbulent final years of the Tokugawa shogunate — a period of political upheaval, foreign intrusion, and samurai-driven revolution that culminated in the Meiji Restoration. It is one of the most transformative chapters in Japan's history, when centuries of tradition collided with the urgent need for national survival and modernisation. Joining me for this episode is author and historian Romulus Hillsborough, whose decades of research into the Bakumatsu era have helped illuminate the lives, motives, and struggles of the people who shaped it. Romulus, whose work can be found at samurai-revolution.com, guides us through the downfall of the shogunate, the rise of powerful domains like Satsuma and Chōshū, and the remarkable figures — including Sakamoto Ryōma and Saigō Takamori — who forged Japan's path into a new age. We also discuss his forthcoming book, Samurai Swordsmen: The Definitive History of the Shinsengumi, and his newly established consulting services for authors, editors, documentarians, screenwriters, and others exploring this era. Drawing on original letters, diaries, and memoirs, we explore how Japan navigated foreign pressure, internal fragmentation, and the existential question of identity. We reflect on what surprised Romulus most in his years of research, how samurai ideology evolved during the crisis, and why the Meiji Restoration remains one of the most astonishing political transformations in world history. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @piecesofhistorypod Romulus Hillsborough: https://www.samurai-revolution.com/

Episode twenty-six of the new series of Pieces of History takes us to one of the most strikingly symbolic places in Cold War Europe: Mödlareuth - the tiny village once known as "Little Berlin." With only a few dozen residents, this quiet rural community found itself split by a concrete wall after 1945, becoming an unexpected microcosm of division and ideology. Joining me is historian Susan Berger, whose work focuses on the lived experiences of ordinary people shaped by major political events. Susan guides us through Mödlareuth's past: what the village was like before the division, why such a small place ended up walled off, and how the emotional shock of separation transformed daily life. Drawing on local records, oral histories, and the memories of those who lived on either side, we explore how East and West Germany treated the people of Mödlareuth, what surprised Susan most in her research, and how personal stories from the village help us understand the broader Cold War landscape. Together, we reflect on how to balance grand historical narratives with intimate human experiences - and what Mödlareuth ultimately teaches us about borders, identity, and the communities shaped by division. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Museum Modlareuth - https://www.moedlareuth.de/en/

Episode twenty-five of the new series of Pieces of History turns its gaze to Spain - a country where landscapes, ruins, and silences still carry the weight of a conflict that ended nearly a century ago. The Spanish Civil War continues to shape identity, politics, and memory, yet much of its legacy remains contested, hidden, or unspoken. Joining me is writer and historian Nick Lloyd, whose long connection with Spain and deep engagement with the war's legacy come together in his powerful book Travels Through the Spanish Civil War.  Rather than offering a traditional historical account, Nick travels through the places where the war was fought and remembered - from the shattered streets of Belchite to the refugee trails across the Pyrenees - uncovering the stories embedded in Spain's terrain. Together, we explore the origins of the Civil War, the forces that shaped each side, and the human experiences that still echo in towns, archives, and family histories. Nick shares encounters with historians, journalists, and descendants of survivors; reflects on the emotional impact of tracing escape routes into France; and shines a light on figures like Francesc Boix, whose photographs became vital testimony at Nuremberg. In this episode, we delve into how Spain remembers - and forgets - its civil war, examining the landscapes, memories, and moral questions that continue to define its modern identity. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Travels Through the Spanish Civil War - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Travels-Through-Spanish-Civil-War-ebook/dp/B0DZQ7DSS3

Episode twenty-four of the new series of Pieces of History turns the spotlight on Uzbekistan - a country often overlooked in global discussions yet rich in history, culture, and complexity. From the Silk Road cities of Samarkand and Bukhara to the modern-day shifts reshaping its society, Uzbekistan stands at a fascinating crossroads of past and future. Joining me is journalist and author Joanna Lillis, a long-time observer of Central Asia whose latest book, Silk Mirage: Through the Looking Glass in Uzbekistan, offers a vivid and revealing portrait of the country today. Together, we explore Uzbekistan's geography, political dynamics, economic changes, and social transformations, uncovering the realities behind its evolving image. In this episode, we dive into the forces shaping Uzbekistan's identity, challenge common assumptions, and shed light on a nation navigating a complex path between tradition and modernity. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Silk Mirage: Through the Looking Glass in Uzbekistan - https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/silk-mirage-9781350292468/

Episode twenty-two of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to Rathmullan - a coastal village on the shores of Lough Swilly whose story spans centuries of Irish history. My guest is local historian and guide Deirdra Friel, who helps trace Rathmullan's remarkable past - from the legacy of the McSweeneys and the Abbey to its surprising links with figures like Davy Crockett. We explore the dramatic kidnap of Red Hugh O'Donnell and the Flight of the Earls, events that changed the course of Ireland's story, before turning to the turbulence of 1798, when Wolfe Tone and the French fleet appeared off the Donegal coast. Moving into the twentieth century, Deirdra also sheds light on Rathmullan's connection to the First World War, the arrival of the Grand Fleet, and the enduring mystery of the HMS Saldanha. This is more than a tale of one village — it's a journey through rebellion, resilience, and remembrance on the edge of the Atlantic. Donegal Heritage Trails: donegalheritagetrails.com Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode twenty-one of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to Lisburn, a city with a layered past and a living heritage. My guest is local historian and tour guide Aaron McIntyre, who helps trace Lisburn's story from its earliest settlements to the city we see today. We look at the debate around its pre-Plantation origins, the transformation of the seventeenth century with the Plantation, linen, and Lisburn Castle, and the great fire of 1707 that reshaped its streets and architecture. Moving into the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Aaron explores the dominance of the linen industry, the rise of families like the Barbours, and the town's political life — from the Volunteer Movement and 1783 election to the ideals of the United Irishmen. Finally, we reflect on modern Lisburn, how heritage balances with city life, and where its past remains most visible today. This is more than just a walk through Lisburn's streets — it's a journey into how history, industry, and community shaped one of Ulster's most significant towns. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode twenty of the new season of Pieces of History brings us into the world of Roman Britain through the work of archaeologist and illustrator Dr. David Neal. Over his career, Dr. Neal has recorded and interpreted some of the most important mosaics ever uncovered in Britain. We'll trace his journey from early influences and training, to the moment he discovered the connection between art and archaeology. Along the way, Dr. Neal explains what mosaics are, why they matter, and what they reveal about Roman society and daily life. He shares how he developed new techniques to document them, the challenges of balancing creativity with accuracy, and the milestones that shaped his career. From the evolution of archaeological recording in the digital age to the enduring role of traditional illustration, we'll explore how his work has preserved the Roman past for future generations. Join us for a conversation that uncovers not only the beauty of Roman mosaics, but also the craft of bringing them back to life on the page. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode nineteen of the new season of Pieces of History takes us to the heart of Ireland's medieval capital - Kilkenny. I'm joined by John Comerford, a local historian and tour guide, to explore the city's rich past and enduring legacy. Together, we'll walk through Kilkenny's Medieval Mile, uncovering stories behind its well-preserved cobblestone streets, soaring cathedrals, and, of course, the imposing Kilkenny Castle. John shares how the city's unique blend of Norman, ecclesiastical, and civic architecture reflects centuries of power, faith, and community life. From medieval guilds to political intrigue, from the Black Abbey to St. Canice's Cathedral, we'll reveal how Kilkenny's monuments are more than stone - they are living markers of Ireland's turbulent and fascinating history. How has Kilkenny managed to preserve its medieval charm so vividly into the 21st century? And what do its landmarks tell us about Ireland's wider story of conquest, resilience, and cultural identity? Join us as we journey into the streets and stories of Kilkenny, guided by one of the people who knows them best. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode eighteen of the new season of Pieces of History delves into a tale of intrigue, ambition, and one of the most daring thefts in history. Journalist and podcast writer Emma-Jane Kirby joins me to discuss A Most Audacious Heist, her gripping show that uncovers the extraordinary true story of the theft of the Sisi Star - a priceless diamond hairpiece belonging to Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sisi. We'll explore Emma-Jane's journey from journalism to podcasting and how her investigative background shapes the way she brings historical narratives to life. Together, we'll unravel the story of Daniel Blanchard, the enigmatic thief at the centre of this audacious crime, and the life and legacy of Empress Sisi, a figure both adored and misunderstood in 19th-century Europe. Was the theft a crime of greed, a political statement, or something more? And how does this heist fit into the broader historical landscape of its time? Join us as we dive into a story of glamour, deception, and high-stakes intrigue. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode seventeen of the new series of Pieces of History journeys deep into the Alps - and deeper still into one of Europe's quietest royal dynasties: the Princely House of Liechtenstein. In this episode, we follow the unlikely rise of a family that didn't conquer a kingdom - they bought one. From medieval Austria to the court of the Habsburg emperors, the Liechtensteins navigated war, revolution, and exile not with armies, but with alliances, land deals, and political calculation. Why did they acquire two obscure Alpine territories? How did they go from absentee landlords to active monarchs? And how, in a century that shattered empires and toppled kings, did Liechtenstein survive - and thrive? This isn't just a story about a tiny country with discreet banks and snowy peaks. It's about status, survival, and the art of monarchy in the shadows - a house that forged a nation not for power, but for legitimacy, and ended up outlasting the very empire that once defined it. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode sixteen of Pieces of History journeys into the rugged landscapes and complex past of Eritrea - a nation whose story is shaped by ancient empires, fierce colonial rivalries, and decades of struggle for independence. In this episode, we explore Eritrea's unique position at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East - from its role in the ancient Aksumite Empire to centuries under Ottoman and Egyptian influence, followed by Italian colonization and the brutal fight against Ethiopian annexation. What fuelled the thirty-year war for independence? How did colonial ambitions and shifting alliances shape Eritrea's identity? And what challenges has this young nation faced since finally achieving sovereignty - including a devastating border war, authoritarian rule, and prolonged isolation? This is more than a history of conflict and survival. It's a story of resilience, cultural richness, and a people's enduring hope for peace and self-determination. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode fifteen of Pieces of History takes us deep into the eerie world of 17th-century Ireland, where ghost stories, political intrigue, and family legacies intertwine. In this episode, we uncover the mysterious Beresford Apparition - a chilling spectral visitation involving Lady Beresford and Lord Tyrone that has haunted local memory for centuries. What was the story behind this famous ghostly encounter? How did it reflect the turbulent politics and social tensions of the era? And what role did prophecy and superstition play in shaping public perception? More than just a tale of hauntings, this episode explores the fragile boundaries between history and folklore, power and prophecy — and how stories from the past continue to captivate and mystify us today. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode fourteen of the new series of Pieces of History steps into the heart of 1970s Stockholm, where a botched bank heist gave rise to one of psychology's most confounding concepts: Stockholm Syndrome. In this episode, we unravel the tense six-day standoff at Kreditbanken in Norrmalmstorg Square - a robbery that turned into a media circus, a national spectacle, and a defining moment in the study of trauma and empathy. As police surrounded the building, something strange was happening inside: hostages began identifying with their captors, defending them, even fearing the authorities more than the gunmen. Who were the players in this gripping drama? What psychological mechanisms were at work behind the vault doors? And how did a single phrase - "Stockholm Syndrome" - come to define hostage dynamics for generations? This is more than a story of crime and crisis. It's a window into the human psyche, a moment when fear, trust, and identity collided - and changed how we understand captivity, survival, and loyalty. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode thirteen of the new series of Pieces of History heads into the rugged wilderness of British Columbia to uncover the story of the Cariboo Gold Rush — a lesser-known but no less dramatic chapter of 19th-century North American history. This episode traces the feverish pursuit of fortune that drew thousands into remote mountain passes and dense forests, carving new routes through the Canadian frontier. I explore the chaotic rise of boomtowns, the role of Indigenous peoples and Chinese miners, and the shifting social fabric of a colony transformed by gold. Who were the dreamers and desperados chasing their fortunes north? What trails did they blaze — and what did they leave behind? I peel back the myths to uncover the realities of daily life in the Cariboo: the hardship, the ambition, the injustice, and the fleeting glimmers of prosperity. This is more than a tale of gold and grit. It's a story of how a rush for riches reshaped a landscape, a people, and the path of a nation. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

Episode twelve of the new series of Pieces of History delves into the shadowy world of the Peruvian Inquisition, a chapter in colonial Latin American history often forgotten outside academic circles. This episode traces the complex layers of Peru's past - from its rich geography and the legacy of powerful pre-Columbian empires, to the imposition of Spanish colonial rule and the creation of the Viceroyalty of Peru. We explore how faith and fear intertwined in the workings of the Tribunal of the Holy Office, a tool of control cloaked in righteousness. Who were the inquisitors? Who stood accused? And how did this machine of secrecy and surveillance actually function? We uncover the inner workings of the Inquisition - its procedures, its secrecy, and the machinery of control behind its solemn rituals. We meet the individuals, both feared and forgotten, who shaped and were shaped by this powerful institution. And we reflect on the lasting legacies of persecution and authority, considering how their echoes still reverberate through Peruvian history and cultural memory. This is not just a story of trials and punishments - it's a deeper look at how power, belief, and silence shaped an entire society. Email: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod

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: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Dr. Frances Nolan: The Jacobite Duchess:: Frances Jennings, Duchess of Tyrconnell, c.1649-1731 https://boydellandbrewer.com/9781783276141/the-jacobite-duchess/

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: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Dr. Paul Fox: https://www.drpaulfoxfsa.com/

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: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Cairde na Cille: https://cairdenacille.org/

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: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod Old Souls: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Old-Souls-Scientific-Search-Proof/dp/068485192X

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: piecesofhistorypod@outlook.com Facebook: Pieces of History podcast Instagram: @pieceofhistorypod General Eoin O'Duffy: The Political Life of an Irish Firebrand https://www.amazon.co.uk/General-Eoin-ODuffy-Political-Firebrand/dp/1476693269