1768 – The Octennial Act limits the duration of the Irish Parliament.
The Octennial Act is passed, restricting the lifespan of the Irish Parliament to eight years. Previously, parliaments could sit indefinitely at the pleasure of the British Crown, allowing long-term government control. This act is seen as a step toward greater legislative independence, though Ireland remains under British rule.
1822 – Birth of James Thomson, engineer and scientist.
James Thomson is born in Belfast. A leading engineer and professor, he contributes significantly to the fields of hydraulics and thermodynamics. His work on heat engines and water flow influences the development of civil engineering and physics, and his theories help shape modern engineering principles.
| 1886 – The Irish Catholic Hierarchy formally endorses Home Rule. The Irish Catholic bishops officially support the Home Rule movement, advocating for an Irish parliament to manage domestic affairs. Their endorsement strengthens nationalist demands for self-governance and aligns with Charles Stewart Parnell’s push for legislative autonomy within the British Empire. |  |
1902 – Birth of folk singer Delia Murphy.
Delia Murphy is born in Ardroe, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. She becomes one of Ireland’s most celebrated folk singers, popularizing traditional Irish ballads like The Spinning Wheel. Her music preserves Ireland’s oral tradition and inspires future generations of folk artists.
1919 – Death of Mark Sykes, British diplomat and co-architect of the Sykes-Picot Agreement.
Mark Sykes, co-author of the Sykes-Picot Agreement, dies at the age of 39. The 1916 pact, secretly negotiated between Britain and France, divides Ottoman-controlled territories in the Middle East, reshaping the region. His death comes amid the chaos of post-war diplomacy and the Irish struggle for independence.
1932 – Fianna Fáil wins the Irish general election.
Éamon de Valera and his party, Fianna Fáil, secure a historic victory, ending a decade of governance by W. T. Cosgrave and Cumann na nGaedheal. De Valera becomes President of the Executive Council, while Seán Lemass takes charge of Industry and Commerce, beginning a new era in Irish politics.
1948 – Birth of Séamus Brennan, Fianna Fáil politician.
Séamus Brennan is born. A future Fianna Fáil government minister, he plays a significant role in shaping Irish public policy, particularly in transport and social affairs. His influence spans several decades as he serves in key ministerial roles.
1948 – Birth of John Fleming, future Bishop of Killala.
John Fleming is born. He later becomes the Roman Catholic Bishop of Killala, serving from 2002 to 2024. His tenure is marked by efforts to modernize the diocese and address challenges facing the Catholic Church in contemporary Ireland.
2008 – Trinity College Dublin hosts Ireland’s first university graduation for students with intellectual disabilities.
For the first time in Ireland, a group of students with intellectual disabilities graduate from Trinity College Dublin, receiving certificates in Contemporary Living. The program, designed to foster inclusion and independent living skills, represents a landmark achievement in Irish education.
2012 – Barry Doyle is convicted of the murder of Shane Geoghegan.
Barry Doyle is found guilty of the 2008 murder of Shane Geoghegan, an innocent rugby player mistakenly targeted in a gangland shooting. The case sparks national outrage over organized crime and leads to increased efforts to combat gun violence in Ireland.
2018 – Irish government launches Project Ireland 2040.
The Irish government unveils Project Ireland 2040, an ambitious €116 billion development plan aimed at balancing economic growth nationwide. The plan anticipates a population increase of one million people and includes investments in infrastructure, housing, and education.