1687 – Lord Clarendon is replaced by Richard Talbot, Earl of Tyrconnell, as Lord Deputy of Ireland.
Under King James II, Talbot, a Catholic, took over from Lord Clarendon as Lord Deputy of Ireland. His appointment marked a shift in Irish governance, as he worked to repeal Protestant dominance and increase Catholic influence in the administration and military. His policies fueled tensions that would later contribute to the Williamite War in Ireland.
1920 – The first ‘Black and Tans’ officially arrive in Ireland.
The British government deployed the ‘Black and Tans’ to reinforce the Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) in response to the escalating Irish War of Independence. These auxiliary forces, known for their brutality and reprisals against civilians, became infamous for their violent tactics, including burnings, killings, and looting, deepening anti-British sentiment in Ireland.
1921 – The IRA attacks the RIC barracks in Clifden, County Galway.
As part of the Irish War of Independence, the IRA launched an attack on the Clifden RIC barracks, killing two constables. British forces responded by burning several buildings in the town. This cycle of attacks and reprisals was a common feature of the war, which sought to end British rule in Ireland.
1922 – Northern Ireland’s Minister of Home Affairs declares “we are at war” with the IRA.
Dawson Bates, Minister of Home Affairs in Northern Ireland, made this statement as sectarian violence and IRA activities intensified. On the same day, grenade attacks in Belfast killed four people, highlighting the deepening divide between Catholics and Protestants, a conflict that would persist for decades.
1938 – Belfast Harbour Airport opens.
Now known as George Best Belfast City Airport, the Belfast Harbour Airport was officially opened, enhancing Northern Ireland’s transportation network. The first commercial flight to Glasgow marked the beginning of a modern era of air travel in the region.
1946 – A major celebration is held in Straide, Co. Mayo, for Michael Davitt’s centenary.
Michael Davitt, founder of the Irish National Land League, was honored on the centenary of his birth with celebrations in his hometown of Straide, County Mayo. Davitt played a key role in the land reform movement, advocating for tenant rights and fighting against landlord exploitation in 19th-century Ireland.
| 1988 – Loyalist paramilitary Michael Stone attacks a Provisional IRA funeral in Belfast. During the funeral of three IRA members in Milltown Cemetery, Belfast, Michael Stone launched a grenade and gun attack, killing three mourners and injuring over 60 others. His actions shocked the country and intensified tensions during the Troubles. He was later arrested and sentenced to life in prison. |  |
1999 – The Irish government announces “The Party Starts Here” festival series.
In anticipation of the new millennium, the Irish government launched a 21-month-long festival initiative called “The Party Starts Here.” The celebrations, spanning over 300 festivals, aimed to boost tourism and highlight Irish culture on a global stage.
2000 – RAF airlifts shamrocks to Irish regiments in the British Army.
Continuing a tradition established by Queen Victoria, the Royal Air Force delivered shamrocks to Irish regiments serving in the British Army. This symbolic gesture of recognition for Irish soldiers dates back to the Boer War.
2000 – Northern Secretary Peter Mandelson announces troop withdrawals.
As part of the peace process following the Good Friday Agreement, Peter Mandelson, the Northern Secretary, announced further reductions in British troop presence in Northern Ireland, reflecting the ongoing transition toward peace.
2001 – President Bush, Gerry Adams, and Bertie Ahern attend a White House St. Patrick’s Day event.
At the White House, Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams, and U.S. President George W. Bush attended a St. Patrick’s Day event. Discussions included the Northern Ireland peace process and U.S. support for Irish political stability.
2001 – Kilmainham residents protest office development in Dublin.
Residents of Kilmainham, an area rich in Irish history, staged a protest against a planned office development. They argued that the construction would damage the historical character of the neighborhood, which includes Kilmainham Gaol, a key site in Irish revolutionary history.
2001 – Irish Defense Minister Michael Smith celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with Irish peacekeepers.
Michael Smith, Ireland’s Defense Minister, visited Camp Shamrock in Lebanon to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Irish troops serving as U.N. peacekeepers. The visit highlighted Ireland’s longstanding contribution to international peacekeeping missions.
2003 – Over 1,500 performers participate in Limerick’s International Marching Band Parade.
Limerick hosted its 33rd International Marching Band Parade and Competition, featuring over 1,500 performers. The event, known for its festive atmosphere, attracted thousands of spectators and showcased Ireland’s musical and cultural traditions.
2024 – Stardust disaster survivor Antoinette Keegan announces political candidacy.
Antoinette Keegan, who survived the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire that killed 48 people, declared her candidacy for a Dáil seat in the upcoming General Election. Her campaign focuses on issues such as housing and healthcare, inspired by her long fight for justice for the Stardust victims.