When a respectable Victorian doctor became Britain’s most feared poisoner
Victorian England believed murder belonged to the gutters. Then Dr William Palmer shattered that illusion.
In this gripping episode of History Rage, award-winning journalist and author Stephen Bates exposes the dark truth behind the case of William Palmer — the Midlands doctor hanged in 1856 for poisoning his friend John Parsons Cook.
Known as the “Rugeley Poisoner”, Palmer was a churchgoing professional, a gambler drowning in debt, and a man suspected of killing far more than the one murder for which he was convicted. His weapon? Newly available strychnine — a terrifying poison that left victims writhing in agony and Victorian society gripped by fear.
What You’ll Discover in This Episode
Stephen also explores parallels with later cases, including Herbert Rouse Armstrong, the subject of his book The Poisonous Solicitor, and reflects on how professional status has long influenced public perceptions of guilt.
This is Victorian true crime at its most unsettling: insurance fraud, gambling debts, missing betting slips, botched inquests, and a public execution witnessed by 30,000 people.
About Our Guest – Stephen Bates
Stephen Bates is an award-winning journalist and former political correspondent. He is the author of:
The Poisoner was shortlisted for the prestigious Agatha Award for True Crime in the United States.
🔗 Website: https://stephenbateswriter.com
Why This Case Still Matters
Palmer’s trial raises urgent questions that still resonate:
From Victorian strychnine to modern medical murderers, the uncomfortable truth remains: monsters don’t always look like monsters.
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Victorian crime wasn’t just about back alleys and desperation. Sometimes it wore a respectable face, attended church — and carried a vial of poison.
Listen now and stay angry.
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