Hoax

The Catholic Plot That Never Was

By: Victor Stater

Narrated by: John Lee

The extraordinary story of the Popish Plot and how it shaped the political and religious future of Britain

In 1678, a handful of perjurers claimed that the Catholics of England planned to assassinate the king. Men like the "Reverend Doctor" Titus Oates and "Captain" William Bedloe parlayed their fantastical tales of Irish ruffians, medical poisoners, and silver bullets into public adulation and government pensions. Their political allies used the fabricated plot as a tool to undermine the ministry of Thomas Lord Danby and replace him themselves. The result was the trial and execution of over a dozen innocent Catholics, and the imprisonment of many more, some of whom died in custody.

Victor Stater examines the Popish Plot in full, arguing that it had a profound and lasting significance on British politics. He shows how Charles II emerged from the crisis with credit, moderating the tempers of the time, and how, as the catalyst for the later attempt to deny James II his throne through parliamentary action, it led to the birth of two-party politics in England.

©2022 Yale University (P)2022 Tantor

Tremendous amount of detail.

More in depth treatment of the story than many will need or want. Less attention on the broader themes of history implicated by these events than most will want.

A lively, gripping, and witty history.

Hoax brings an often-overlooked time in English history to life in a way that keeps the listener consistently engaged and wanting to hear more. The writing is tidy, clear, and humorous. The characters come to life in a way that reminds one of court intrigue and drama as seen in the best fiction, though each detail comes directly from the past. It is long enough to dig into and become invested, but short enough to keep things interesting memorable. Would recommend.