Since 2011, History Ireland has run lively, unfettered debates on a wide range of international, national and local topics. Called History Ireland Hedge Schools, these provide a novel and interesting way to bring historical topics to life, adding immeasurably to cultural life in Ireland.

The History Ireland Hedge School is a simple format of a panel discussion (c 75 minutes’ duration) involving four speakers-each an expert on an aspect of the topic under discussion. The discussion is facilitated by Tommy Graham, editor of History Ireland.

Originally organised as live events, History Ireland Hedge Schools transitioned to pre-recorded podcasts (recorded via Zoom) in 2020 in order to comply with public health restrictions. The Hedge School podcasts are now broadcast across multiple podcast platforms. This has significantly increased listenership (39.8K on 12 April 2021).

The Hedge School Podcast for the Fingal County Council Creative Ireland Programme 2021 is entitled Fingal 1916; Ireland 1919-21?

The Hedge School will address the following question:

To what extent did the military tactics of Thomas Ashe's (5th) Fingal battalion in 1916 prefigure those of the IRA in the War of Independence, 1919-21?

This question will be put to a panel of historians (generally 4) who are selected for their specialist knowledge on each topic under discussion. 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.