Through centuries of prejudice (and deep national pride), Ireland has long been known for its alcohol drinking culture. In the 19th century, however, much of Northern Ireland gave up its drinking habit and replaced it with a powerfully mind-altering elixir that is now largely forgotten: ether.

How and why did this happen? And just what role did the Great Famine and the Irish struggle for independence and home rule play? In today's episode, we do a deep dive into this little-known piece of Irish history.