Empire Podcast Episode 234: Battle of the Boyne: Clash of Two Kings (Ep 2) Release Date: March 4, 2025
Hosts: William Dalrymple and Anita Anand
Guest: Jane Almayer, Author of "Making Empire: Ireland, Imperialism and the Early Modern World"

Introduction

In Episode 234 of Empire, hosts William Dalrymple and Anita Anand delve into the pivotal Battle of the Boyne, exploring its historical significance, the personalities involved, and its enduring impact on Irish and British societies. Joined by author Jane Almayer, the discussion navigates through the tumultuous period of the mid to late 17th century, shedding light on the complex interplay of politics, religion, and power that defined the era.

Cromwell’s Death and the Aftermath ([02:34]–[04:22])

The episode opens with a discussion on Oliver Cromwell’s demise. William Dalrymple notes, “[Cromwell dies] of malaria, actually, in 1659” ([02:34]). Anita Anand humorously queries the specifics of his ailment, leading to Dalrymple clarifying the prevalence of malaria in regions like Kent and Cambridge during that period.

Dalrymple elaborates on Cromwell’s tumultuous end and the subsequent instability:

“Cromwell was buried in Westminster Abbey. He's dug up and his body is just scattered... We don't know where the head is” ([04:16]).

Jane Almayer adds depth by sharing local lore about Cromwell’s remains:

“The trunk ended up in the burial... buried secretly in the crypt of St Nicholas in Chiswick” ([04:30]).

This segment underscores the enduring animosity towards Cromwell in Ireland and sets the stage for the Restoration.

Restoration of Charles II and Land Settlements in Ireland ([05:23]–[07:29])

Anita Anand prompts the transition from Cromwell to the Restoration, with Dalrymple explaining the delicate balance Charles II had to maintain:

“Charles II really can't afford to alienate [Cromwellians]. He needs their support to govern effectively” ([05:54]).

This led to complex land settlements in Ireland, balancing the entrenched Cromwellian landholders with the aspirations of loyalist Catholics. Despite tensions, figures like the Duke of Ormond facilitated a period of relative prosperity in Ireland during the 1660s and 1670s, with Dublin flourishing as a significant city.

Dalrymple highlights economic developments driven by the Navigation Act:

“Ireland is starting economically to prosper on the back of English colonial expansionists” ([07:06]).

Religious Tensions and the Rise of James II ([07:09]–[10:26])

The conversation shifts to the evolving religious landscape under Charles II, who, though a practicing Anglican, harbored sympathies towards Catholicism. Dalrymple reveals:

“His brother, the Duke of York, openly converts to Catholicism” ([08:37]).

This conversion ignited fears among Protestants, setting the stage for future conflicts. The impending Catholic succession under James II becomes a central concern, leading to heightened tensions between Catholics and Protestants in Ireland.

William of Orange and the Glorious Revolution ([10:26]–[21:12])

Anita Anand introduces a personal connection to the historical narrative through her ancestral ties to Arnold Hughes Keppel, an alleged close associate of William of Orange. The discussion then delves into William’s background:

“William of Orange was born in 1650... He's a great proponent of religious toleration” ([21:30]).

Dalrymple paints a detailed portrait of William, emphasizing his diplomatic skills and his role in the Glorious Revolution—a pivotal moment where Parliament invited William to take the English throne, leading to James II’s exile.

Anita Anand shares her excitement about uncovering family history linked to this period, adding a personal dimension to the historical discourse.

The Battle of the Boyne and Its Impact ([21:30]–[40:54])

The heart of the episode centers on the Battle of the Boyne, fought on July 1, 1690. Dalrymple explains the strategic maneuvers that led to William’s victory:

“William sends his men north... he entraps them. They can't get across the river, so they're overwhelmed” ([30:40]).

Despite its historical prominence, Dalrymple notes that the battle itself was tactically disappointing for the Jacobites, primarily due to lackluster leadership from James II:

“James, particularly now he's an old man... the Jacobites perform poorly and ultimately lose the battle” ([29:42]).

The aftermath of the battle saw James II fleeing back to France, resulting in negative portrayals among Irish Catholics who felt abandoned. This defeat solidified the Protestant Ascendancy, a socio-political dominance that persisted for centuries.

Dalrymple discusses the broader ramifications, including the Siege of Aughrim and the Treaty of Limerick, which promised religious toleration but was ultimately broken by Protestant forces. This betrayal led to stringent penal laws against Catholics, dramatically reshaping Irish society.

Anita Anand underscores the lasting legacy of these events:

“The Battle of the Boyne is seen as the moment the Protestant ascendancy is solidified” ([37:12]).

Dalrymple reflects on contemporary efforts to reconcile these historical divisions:

“It's an important moment that [the commemoration center at Old Bridge] will in the course of time... share a history that acknowledges, in a very respectful way, where we differ” ([38:51]).

He expresses cautious optimism about Ireland’s future, drawing parallels with its partition and ongoing political dynamics:

“Ireland is a really good example of a two-state solution... key is it happens by the ballot box and not by the bayonet” ([40:32]).

Conclusion and Reflections

As the episode concludes, Dalrymple and Anand emphasize the enduring significance of the Battle of the Boyne in shaping Irish and British identities. Jane Almayer’s insights provide a nuanced understanding of the period’s complexities, highlighting the intricate relations between empire, religion, and power.

Dalrymple encourages listeners to engage deeply with history to foster a more inclusive and reconciled future:

“It’s about bowing to the past without being bound by it” ([37:12]).

He lauds Almayer’s work, recommending her book as essential reading for those seeking to comprehend the intricate tapestry of empire and its legacies.

“Jane Almayer, do read her fantastic book 'Making Empire'. It is an absolutely exceptional read” ([40:54]).

Notable Quotes

• Dalrymple ([02:34]): “Cromwell dies of malaria, actually, in 1659.”
• Dalrymple ([04:16]): “We don't know where the head is.”
• Dalrymple ([07:06]): “Ireland is starting economically to prosper on the back of English colonial expansionists.”
• Dalrymple ([08:37]): “His brother, the Duke of York, openly converts to Catholicism.”
• Dalrymple ([21:30]): “William of Orange was born in 1650... He's a great proponent of religious toleration.”
• Dalrymple ([30:40]): “William sends his men north... he entraps them. They can't get across the river, so they're overwhelmed.”
• Dalrymple ([37:12]): “The Battle of the Boyne is seen as the moment the Protestant ascendancy is solidified.”
• Dalrymple ([38:51]): “It's about bowing to the past without being bound by it.”
• Dalrymple ([40:32]): “Key is it happens by the ballot box and not by the bayonet.”

Looking Ahead

In the closing moments, Dalrymple teases the next episode, which will explore the interconnected colonial experiences of Ireland and India, promising to unravel surprising parallels and shared histories. Listeners are encouraged to continue the journey through empire’s legacy with the next installment.

Recommendation:
For a comprehensive exploration of Ireland’s role in empire and the Battle of the Boyne’s lasting impact, Jane Almayer’s “Making Empire: Ireland, Imperialism and the Early Modern World” is a highly recommended read.