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Hoax: The Popish Plot that Never Was
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.
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.
- GenresHistoryNonfiction
336 pages, Hardcover
First published July 26, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
February 18, 2023
How much do you know about Titus Oates and his claim of an anti-popish plot during the reign of King Charles II? Probably not much beyond Oates testifying to the monarchy that there was a massive planned Catholic uprising afoot hell-bent on murdering Charles II and that this ‘plot’ was proven to be completely fictional. Don’t feel bad – this is usually the extent of coverage in Stuart England/King Charles II history books. Presented as a flimsy, momentary, unimportant blip; readers and history lovers are led to believe that Oates and his conman scandal had no impact on the history of England. It turns out that this is far from the actual truth. Victor Stater shatters every barrier by bringing forth a comprehensive and conclusive topical-focus text on the subject in, “Hoax: The Popish Plot That Never Was”.
Initially, per the introduction and early pages, “Hoax” suffers from a rocky start with confusing blunders that attempt to set the scene, subject and context by demonstrating the civilian environment in England at the onset of the alleged plot in order to lay the foundation of the religious tension in the air before the monarchy ever became involved. Although it is understandable why Stater engineered this angle to set a narrative tone and to also tip-toe readers into the subject matter – it simply does not succeed and Stater should have instead opted to dive into the historical event. Luckily, this feeble beginning is the only major negative of “Hoax” and we can forgive Stater for his indiscretion.
Proceeding this misstep, “Hoax” introduces Israel Tonge and Titus Oates (the initial players and masterminds behind the fake plot) highlighting their respective biographical backgrounds and how they connected with one another. Even at this early stage, “Hoax” is phenomenal and compelling – and we haven’t even gotten to the meat and potatoes of the text! Stater throws so much information at the readers; that it is insulting that other historians virtually ignore this topic when so much information (and riveting, at that!) is available. Readers will find themselves fully immersed and educated expecting chapters to have flown by and it has only been a few pages! “Hoax” is mind-blowing and amazing; yet, never overwhelming to the reader.
In fact, on the contrary, “Hoax” is accessible and easy-to-understand with a fast-paced narrative tone that is comparable to the best contemporary crime documentary, journalistic exposé and/or salacious podcast you have ever watched/read/seen but with a credible, scholarly, academic base. The extent of the research Stater poured into “Hoax” (and during a pandemic) is fantastical and again: almost angering that it is so rarely discussed, otherwise. Solidifying this even more is Stater’s vivid, illustrative and gorgeous composition of the written language that will leave readers swooning and fellow writers envious.
Stater invites other key figures into the narrative (William Bedloe, Ashley Cooper, Dangerfield, and Chief Justice Scroggs, to name a few) which sets the structure for the entire piece. “Hoax” overflows with names and might possibly win the superlative for most individuals mentioned in a history book. Yet, everything is backed by sourced material and never bogs down the reader. Each figure is memorable, comes to life and is necessary: Stater never fills “Hoax” with fluff and is an absolute master at staying on topic.
The majority of “Hoax” unpacks the supposed Catholic uprising and the Catholic vs. Protestant (and, in turn, Protestant vs. Catholic witch-hunt) strain rippling at the surface that formed these events in the first place. “Hoax” explores the motives pushing Oates and his co-conspirators (money, fame) to claim that the Catholics wanted to scour the country murdering non-Catholics and King Charles II. What followed was essentially a religious civil war that affected the King, parliament and the very way England was governed. Stater follows with exposing all of the court trials, testimonies, (non-existing) proof, (false) witnesses, jury deliberations, etc. No rock is left unturned and every single word and page is some of the most gratifying history that Stuart England lovers will ever feast their eyes on.
In a way that is comparable to fictional works; readers become invested in every figure and the turn of events in “Hoax”. Some figures will be hated with a vengeance (particularly, Oates) while pity will be felt for the innocent Catholic victims put to death. All is of this felt on microscopic and psychological levels. There is so much underlying depth behind “Hoax”; that it makes the book far greater than a mere historical re-telling.
“Hoax” is somewhat one-note in that much of the text discusses court trial after court trial. Traditionally, this would be a monotone bore lacking spice but “Hoax” continues to educate and entertain in a cinematic way. Stater’s “Hoax” is the definition of a ‘page turner’ and is so difficult to put down that reader WILL lose sleep!
Also marvelous in “Hoax” is the reiteration not just of the specific subject; but the exploration of the impact it had on King Charles II, his family, his governmental body, civilians and English history, overall. This perturbed fictional plot was a Catholic bloodbath and (thankfully) was the last major religious upheaval in England. It is insane that one man’s lies could turn life upside-down reminiscent of modern-day cults, serial killers, dictators and conspiracies. “Hoax” truly gives readers much ‘food for thought’.
Stater successfully avoids biases or personal opinions in “Hoax” and remain bi-partisan but without being soft. “Hoax” explores both sides of the issues and how both were impacted.
Unfortunately, the conclusion of “Hoax” is abrupt, rushed and leaves readers with the, “That’s it?!” -response. Did Stater hit his deadline with his editor/publisher? Did he not know how to wrap up the text effectively? We will never know but the fact of the matter is that the masterpiece “Hoax” has a poor finality. Also absent is a look at how Oates was truly exposed, the reactions to this and how King Charles II and this subjects responded when finding out everything was perjury at the martyring of innocent lives. This is lightly built-up and alluded to but then not followed-through. Despite this, “Hoax” isn’t weakened, overall.
“Hoax” is supplemented with a section of black-and-white photo plates, notes (not annotated) and sources for further reading.
Even with the poor introduction and conclusion; “Hoax” is one of the best Stuart England and English history books, ever-written (yes, a lofty but well-deserved title) on a topic that is lesser-discussed. “Hoax” is an absolute pleasurable romp and is recommended for all English history lovers, Stuart England fans and readers of all things King Charles II. Run and don’t walk to grab, “Hoax”. What are you waiting for?!
Initially, per the introduction and early pages, “Hoax” suffers from a rocky start with confusing blunders that attempt to set the scene, subject and context by demonstrating the civilian environment in England at the onset of the alleged plot in order to lay the foundation of the religious tension in the air before the monarchy ever became involved. Although it is understandable why Stater engineered this angle to set a narrative tone and to also tip-toe readers into the subject matter – it simply does not succeed and Stater should have instead opted to dive into the historical event. Luckily, this feeble beginning is the only major negative of “Hoax” and we can forgive Stater for his indiscretion.
Proceeding this misstep, “Hoax” introduces Israel Tonge and Titus Oates (the initial players and masterminds behind the fake plot) highlighting their respective biographical backgrounds and how they connected with one another. Even at this early stage, “Hoax” is phenomenal and compelling – and we haven’t even gotten to the meat and potatoes of the text! Stater throws so much information at the readers; that it is insulting that other historians virtually ignore this topic when so much information (and riveting, at that!) is available. Readers will find themselves fully immersed and educated expecting chapters to have flown by and it has only been a few pages! “Hoax” is mind-blowing and amazing; yet, never overwhelming to the reader.
In fact, on the contrary, “Hoax” is accessible and easy-to-understand with a fast-paced narrative tone that is comparable to the best contemporary crime documentary, journalistic exposé and/or salacious podcast you have ever watched/read/seen but with a credible, scholarly, academic base. The extent of the research Stater poured into “Hoax” (and during a pandemic) is fantastical and again: almost angering that it is so rarely discussed, otherwise. Solidifying this even more is Stater’s vivid, illustrative and gorgeous composition of the written language that will leave readers swooning and fellow writers envious.
Stater invites other key figures into the narrative (William Bedloe, Ashley Cooper, Dangerfield, and Chief Justice Scroggs, to name a few) which sets the structure for the entire piece. “Hoax” overflows with names and might possibly win the superlative for most individuals mentioned in a history book. Yet, everything is backed by sourced material and never bogs down the reader. Each figure is memorable, comes to life and is necessary: Stater never fills “Hoax” with fluff and is an absolute master at staying on topic.
The majority of “Hoax” unpacks the supposed Catholic uprising and the Catholic vs. Protestant (and, in turn, Protestant vs. Catholic witch-hunt) strain rippling at the surface that formed these events in the first place. “Hoax” explores the motives pushing Oates and his co-conspirators (money, fame) to claim that the Catholics wanted to scour the country murdering non-Catholics and King Charles II. What followed was essentially a religious civil war that affected the King, parliament and the very way England was governed. Stater follows with exposing all of the court trials, testimonies, (non-existing) proof, (false) witnesses, jury deliberations, etc. No rock is left unturned and every single word and page is some of the most gratifying history that Stuart England lovers will ever feast their eyes on.
In a way that is comparable to fictional works; readers become invested in every figure and the turn of events in “Hoax”. Some figures will be hated with a vengeance (particularly, Oates) while pity will be felt for the innocent Catholic victims put to death. All is of this felt on microscopic and psychological levels. There is so much underlying depth behind “Hoax”; that it makes the book far greater than a mere historical re-telling.
“Hoax” is somewhat one-note in that much of the text discusses court trial after court trial. Traditionally, this would be a monotone bore lacking spice but “Hoax” continues to educate and entertain in a cinematic way. Stater’s “Hoax” is the definition of a ‘page turner’ and is so difficult to put down that reader WILL lose sleep!
Also marvelous in “Hoax” is the reiteration not just of the specific subject; but the exploration of the impact it had on King Charles II, his family, his governmental body, civilians and English history, overall. This perturbed fictional plot was a Catholic bloodbath and (thankfully) was the last major religious upheaval in England. It is insane that one man’s lies could turn life upside-down reminiscent of modern-day cults, serial killers, dictators and conspiracies. “Hoax” truly gives readers much ‘food for thought’.
Stater successfully avoids biases or personal opinions in “Hoax” and remain bi-partisan but without being soft. “Hoax” explores both sides of the issues and how both were impacted.
Unfortunately, the conclusion of “Hoax” is abrupt, rushed and leaves readers with the, “That’s it?!” -response. Did Stater hit his deadline with his editor/publisher? Did he not know how to wrap up the text effectively? We will never know but the fact of the matter is that the masterpiece “Hoax” has a poor finality. Also absent is a look at how Oates was truly exposed, the reactions to this and how King Charles II and this subjects responded when finding out everything was perjury at the martyring of innocent lives. This is lightly built-up and alluded to but then not followed-through. Despite this, “Hoax” isn’t weakened, overall.
“Hoax” is supplemented with a section of black-and-white photo plates, notes (not annotated) and sources for further reading.
Even with the poor introduction and conclusion; “Hoax” is one of the best Stuart England and English history books, ever-written (yes, a lofty but well-deserved title) on a topic that is lesser-discussed. “Hoax” is an absolute pleasurable romp and is recommended for all English history lovers, Stuart England fans and readers of all things King Charles II. Run and don’t walk to grab, “Hoax”. What are you waiting for?!
November 17, 2023
This is an excellent blow-by-blow history of the "Popish plot" that was imagined in 17th century England. I learned quite a bit about this plot, though it helps to have a background of English history during its civil war and restoration. I have marked it down a star reluctantly because I thought it was too detailed and the blow-by-blow of each trial was a bit much.
November 22, 2022
Fascinating account of what happens when unscrupulous politicians take advantage of gullible people predisposed to believe evidence-free conspiracy theories. Sound familiar? The first time was tragedy, now it's farce.
December 3, 2022
A fascinating read from start to finish! It was very hard to stay away from this highly entertaining romp from the get-go.
The Popish Plot of 1678 and its aftermath meticulously explained and narrated with panache. Never a dull moment in this sweeping tale that involved lots of conspiracy theories, big lies and political violence.
As France was gripped by the Affair of the poisons, England was eaten alive by its religious demons still festering throughout its society almost 20 years after the Stuart Restoration.
With Hoax, Victor Stater offers us a masterful study of public irrationalities religious hatreds, political weaknesses and a devastating portrait of a nation on the brink of civil war.
Well researched and richly detailed, this book helped me to better understand all the religious problems that had continually plagued England throughout the 17th century as well as better situate the profound political changes that would eventually transform the legislative landscape with the birth of the two parties system especially after the Glorious Revolution.
Highly recommended and to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!
Many thanks to Yale University Press and Netgalley for this terrific ARC
The Popish Plot of 1678 and its aftermath meticulously explained and narrated with panache. Never a dull moment in this sweeping tale that involved lots of conspiracy theories, big lies and political violence.
As France was gripped by the Affair of the poisons, England was eaten alive by its religious demons still festering throughout its society almost 20 years after the Stuart Restoration.
With Hoax, Victor Stater offers us a masterful study of public irrationalities religious hatreds, political weaknesses and a devastating portrait of a nation on the brink of civil war.
Well researched and richly detailed, this book helped me to better understand all the religious problems that had continually plagued England throughout the 17th century as well as better situate the profound political changes that would eventually transform the legislative landscape with the birth of the two parties system especially after the Glorious Revolution.
Highly recommended and to be enjoyed without any moderation whatsoever!
Many thanks to Yale University Press and Netgalley for this terrific ARC
February 16, 2023
The novelistic style is quite immerisive. The story itself is facinating and highly relevant to the disinformation age. Worth a read for those interested in English or Catholic history.
My only issue was keeping track of all the names and characters. Can get a bit confusing.
My only issue was keeping track of all the names and characters. Can get a bit confusing.
June 30, 2022
This was a fascinating read that I learnt so much from reading. It was well researched but didn't seem like a textbook. An enjoyable read.
August 20, 2022
Lu
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews