If you are looking for happy, positive or uplifting stories then this might not be the book for you.If, on the other hand, tales of human tragedy, executions, wars, grave-robbing, rioting, man-eating Kerry eagles, rat-eating Belfast gamblers and Ardee crossdressers are the things that fascinate you, come right on in.From the depths of the island’s past, to more recent booms and busts, Irish history is replete with mesmerising stories and intriguing tales.In this fascinating and often hilarious romp through the lesser-known facts of Irish history, Frank Hopkins delivers a story for every single day of the year.Based on years of extensive research, and delivered with Hopkins’ unique wit and humour, Ireland’s Hidden Histories is a must for Irish history lovers, general readers, and anyone with a curiosity for the strange antics of our forebears.
Frank Hopkins Livres




Exploring Dublin's hidden history, Frank Hopkins reveals intriguing tales from the city's past, including pirate executions, Viking sacrifices, and notorious local figures. The narrative features colorful characters like Olympic tennis champion John Pius Boland, bare-knuckle boxer Jack Langan, and public health innovator Sir William Cameron. Additionally, the legend of the Dolocher, a fearsome creature that was part man, captivates readers. This book combines surprising anecdotes and historical curiosities, offering a unique glimpse into Dublin's rich and often bizarre heritage.
No one rode more miles than Frank Hopkins, eluded more danger, or befriended more famous people than he did. During the 1930s and 40s the self-proclaimed legend told a naïve American public that he had won nearly five hundred endurance races, including an imaginary race across Arabia on a mythical mustang named "Hidalgo."
A random collection of tales of human tragedy, eccentrics, crime and punishment, hanging and rioting on 'The Green'. 'The Green' for several hundred years was effectively the killing fields of Dublin, where the city's criminals were taken to be hanged. Within these pages you will find tales of high-profile executions and lesser-known ones such as the hanging of the brothel-keeper Darky Kelly and the barbaric execution of Mary Fairfield the last person to be hanged there [1784]. Also included are Dan 'The Liberator,' who fought a battle with his love rival at Harcourt Fields, the champion archer Celia Betham, and Bridget Hitler, sister-in-law of Adolf. Tales of rioting on the Green, a race in the Iveagh Gardens between a man and a horse called Rover and a host of characters and incidents that you won't find in any guidebook.