Earl of Kildare and the 1534 Rebellion

The History of Ireland: Rebellion, Empire, and Independence — Fexingo History · Jun 21, 2026 · 7m · transcript

This episode dives into the 1534-35 rebellion of Thomas FitzGerald, the 10th Earl of Kildare, also known as Silken Thomas. We explore how the Tudor reconquest of Ireland began with the execution of his father, Gearóid Mór, and the subsequent revolt against Henry VIII. The episode covers the burning of Dublin, the Siege of Maynooth, and the brutal reprisals that followed, including the massacre at the Castle of Maynooth. We also discuss the role of the Irish Parliament, the surrender and regrant policy, and the impact on the Gaelic nobility. This is a pivotal moment that set the stage for…