1771 – Birth of Thomas Reynolds
Thomas Reynolds was born in Dublin. He became a member of the United Irishmen but later turned informant, leading to the arrest of key members of the Leinster Committee in 1798. His betrayal significantly weakened the Irish Rebellion of 1798, and he remains a controversial figure in Irish history.
1825 – The Unlawful Societies (Ireland) Act
The British government passed this act, which banned both the Catholic Association, led by Daniel O’Connell, and the Orange Order. The Catholic Association had been instrumental in advocating for Catholic emancipation, while the Orange Order promoted Protestant interests in Ireland. Despite the ban, O’Connell reorganized his movement, ultimately leading to the Catholic Relief Act of 1829.
1932 – Éamon de Valera Forms His First Government
Following a general election, Éamon de Valera, leader of Fianna Fáil, formed his first government in the Irish Free State. His tenure marked a shift in Irish politics, with policies aimed at economic self-sufficiency, a move toward greater independence from Britain, and the drafting of a new constitution in 1937.
1954 – Birth of Bobby Sands
Bobby Sands was born in Rathcoole, Belfast. He became a member of the Provisional IRA and was elected as a Member of Parliament while on hunger strike in Maze Prison. Sands’ death on May 5, 1981, after 66 days without food, made him a global symbol of Irish nationalist resistance and brought international attention to the situation in Northern Ireland.
1969 – Death of Martin King
Galway hurler Martin King passed away. Though not widely known, King contributed to the rich sporting heritage of Ireland through the traditional game of hurling, which is one of the oldest field sports in the world.
1982 – Charles Haughey Elected Taoiseach
The 23rd Dáil convened, and Charles Haughey was elected Taoiseach by a narrow majority, including the crucial support of independent TD Tony Gregory. Haughey’s leadership was often controversial, marked by economic challenges, scandals, and tensions within his own party, Fianna Fáil.
| 2010 – Arrests in Ireland Over Assassination Plot Seven individuals were arrested in Waterford and Cork in connection with an alleged plot to assassinate Swedish artist Lars Vilks. Vilks had drawn controversial cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad, leading to threats from extremist groups. The arrests highlighted Ireland’s role in international security and counterterrorism efforts. |  |
2011 – Enda Kenny Becomes Taoiseach
The 31st Dáil convened, and Enda Kenny was elected Taoiseach with a vote of 117–27. Kenny’s leadership focused on economic recovery following the 2008 financial crisis, as Ireland implemented austerity measures in exchange for financial aid from the European Union and International Monetary Fund.