1772 – Thomas Eyre, Member of Parliament for Fore, dies suddenly in the House of Commons.
Thomas Eyre, who had recently returned to Parliament after the death of his only child, passed away unexpectedly while in session. Eyre’s sudden death in the House of Commons was a dramatic moment, as his political career had been on the rise. His loss was felt deeply by his colleagues, and his death highlighted the fragility of life, especially for a man who had been grieving the loss of his son.
| 1797 – A small French force commanded by Irishman William Tate lands in Wales, marking the last invasion of England. In 1797, Irishman William Tate led a French expeditionary force that landed in Wales, attempting to aid the Irish rebellion against British rule. The invasion marked the last such attempt in English history, as the French and Irish forces faced a swift British response. Despite the failure of the invasion, Tate’s efforts remain significant in Irish history as part of the broader struggle for independence. |  |
1832 – The first burial takes place at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin.
The first burial at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin in 1832 marked the beginning of what would become one of Ireland’s most important and historic burial sites. Over the years, the cemetery would hold the remains of many of Ireland’s most famous figures, including politicians, revolutionaries, and cultural icons, making it a focal point for Irish history and remembrance.
1886 – Lord Randolph Churchill delivers a speech at Ulster Hall in Belfast.
Lord Randolph Churchill’s speech at Ulster Hall in Belfast in 1886 included his famous declaration, “Ulster will fight and Ulster will be right.” This speech was a rallying cry for Ulster’s unionists, expressing their defiance against the Home Rule movement. It instilled deep fear among loyalists, reinforcing their determination to resist rule from Dublin and marking a significant moment in Ireland’s political struggles during this period.
1893 – Peadar O’Donnell, novelist, editor of An Phoblacht, and social reformer, is born in Co. Donegal.
Peadar O’Donnell, born in 1893 in County Donegal, became a prominent figure in Irish literature and politics. As a novelist, he used his works to comment on social issues, and as the editor of the revolutionary newspaper An Phoblacht, he championed the causes of Irish nationalism and social reform. O’Donnell’s legacy remains influential in both the literary and political spheres of Ireland.
1900 – Short story writer Sean O’Faolain is born in Cork.
Sean O’Faolain, born in Cork in 1900, was a prolific short story writer who captured the essence of Irish life in his works. His stories often explored the complexities of Irish identity, societal expectations, and personal struggles. O’Faolain’s influence on Irish literature endures, as his stories helped shape the modern narrative of the country’s cultural and historical transitions.
1921 – Painter Cecil King is born in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow.
Cecil King, born in 1921 in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, would go on to become a celebrated figure in the world of Irish art. Known for his distinctive approach to painting, King’s works often drew on his deep connection to Ireland’s landscapes and its people. His artistic career was marked by a sensitivity to Ireland’s evolving cultural identity, making him an important figure in 20th-century Irish art.
1972 – The Official Irish Republican Army detonates a car bomb at Aldershot barracks in England, killing seven and injuring nineteen others.
In 1972, the Official Irish Republican Army (IRA) carried out a car bomb attack on the Aldershot barracks in England, killing seven people and injuring nineteen others. This attack was believed to be in retaliation for the events of Bloody Sunday, when 13 unarmed civilians were killed by the British Army in Derry. The bombing marked a significant escalation in the violence of The Troubles, with consequences that reverberated throughout the conflict.
1995 – Johnny Carey, soccer international and Manchester United captain, dies at the age of 76.
Johnny Carey, the legendary Dublin-born soccer international and former Manchester United captain, passed away in 1995 at the age of 76. Carey was renowned for his leadership on the field, where he helped lead Manchester United through some of its most challenging times. His contributions to Irish and English football were significant, earning him respect and admiration across the sport.
1998 – Director Neil Jordan is awarded a Silver Bear for Best Director at the 48th Berlin International Film Festival.
In 1998, Neil Jordan received the Silver Bear for Best Director at the 48th Berlin International Film Festival for his work on The Butcher Boy. Jordan, known for his unique storytelling and dark, compelling narratives, cemented his place as one of Ireland’s premier filmmakers. The award highlighted his international recognition and the acclaim that The Butcher Boy received for its bold and innovative approach to Irish themes.