Irish Parliament Declares Independence

January 21st, 1919

January 21st, 1919

Irish Parliament Declares Independence
How Long Ago?

106 years, 1 month, 22 days ago

Location

Dublin, Ireland

Category

Politics & Government

War/Conflict

Irish War of Independence

People
  • Michael Collins
  • Arthur Griffith
  • Eamon De Valera
  • Richard Mulcahy
Links & References
Tags

Irish Parliament Declares Independence

A revolutionary Irish parliament convened and declared the independence of the Irish Republic, leading to one of the first engagements of the Irish War of Independence. This significant political event took place in Dublin, where members of the Dáil Éireann gathered to assert their sovereignty against British rule, marking a pivotal moment in Irish history.

Dáil Éireann declared Irish Republic independence.

Political assembly formed following 1918 elections.

Event marked beginning of Irish War of Independence.

Eamon De Valera played a key leadership role.

What Happened?

The declaration of independence was made by the Dáil Éireann, the assembly of the Irish republicans established in 1918 after the general election that year. The elected representatives of Sinn Féin, rather than taking their seats in the UK Parliament, created an alternative parliament to push for Irish sovereignty. On this day, the Dáil Éireann affirmed its legitimacy and issued a proclamation declaring the establishment of the Irish Republic. This declaration was not just a symbolic act; it was a significant challenge to British authority over Ireland. The independence movement was further galvanized by prior events, notably the 1916 Easter Rising, which had brought the issue of Irish self-determination to the forefront and intensified nationalist sentiments across the country. With the declaration, the Dáil hoped to unify the Irish people and garner international support for their cause. Shortly after, clashes began between Irish republicans and British forces, signaling the onset of the Irish War of Independence.

Why Does it Matter?

The founding of the Dáil Éireann and the declaration of independence were crucial moments in the Irish struggle for sovereignty. This event is interesting because it marked the beginning of a violent but transformative conflict that would eventually lead to the establishment of the Irish Free State. The declarations and subsequent actions by the Dáil Éireann provided a rallying point for nationalists, unifying various factions within the independence movement.

Discover More Historic Events from January 21st

Accidents & Tragedies

Fire at Grand Kartal Hotel Claims 78 Lives

January 21st, 2025 0 years ago

A massive fire broke out at the Grand Kartal Hotel in the Kartalkaya ski resort, which is situated in Bolu Province, Turkey, leading to the tragic deaths of 78 individuals and injuring 51 others. Emergency services responded promptly, but the size and intensity of the blaze hindered rescue operations. Many of those affected were guests enjoying a winter getaway when the fire erupted, likely caused by a malfunction in the hotel's heating system. The incident shocked the local community and drew national attention as rescue efforts continued.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Huu Can Tran's Shooting in Monterey Park

January 21st, 2023 2 years ago

Huu Can Tran opened fire at a dance studio in Monterey Park, California, during a Lunar New Year celebration, resulting in the deaths of eleven individuals and injuring nine others. The shooting took place in a venue popular among the local Asian-American community. Following the tragic incident, Tran fled the scene and later committed suicide. This act marked one of the deadliest mass shootings in Los Angeles County history, with significant emotional impact on the surrounding community.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Global Women's March Protests Trump Presidency

January 21st, 2017 8 years ago

A historic global coalition of citizens united in a massive demonstration advocating for women's rights and various social issues took place across over 400 cities in the United States and in more than 160 countries worldwide. These gatherings, inspired by the election of Donald Trump, centered on themes of equality, justice, and sustainable environmental practices. Participants rallied together to amplify their voices and express concerns about the future of women's rights and civil rights in America and beyond, marking a significant moment in grassroots activism.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Jazira Canton Declares Autonomy from Syria

January 21st, 2014 11 years ago

The Jazira Canton in Northern Syria declared its autonomy from the Syrian Arab Republic. This declaration was made amidst the ongoing Syrian Civil War and aimed to establish a self-governing entity for the Kurdish population in the region. The move was driven by the desire for increased local governance and control over the region's resources, particularly in response to perceived neglect from the central government in Damascus.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Violent Protests Erupt in Tirana, Albania

January 21st, 2011 14 years ago

In Tirana, Albania, anti-government demonstrations escalated into violence, resulting in the deaths of four individuals. The protests were aimed at the government led by Prime Minister Sali Berisha, with demonstrators demanding accountability amidst economic discontent. The protests were met with a heavy police presence, and reports indicated that gunfire was exchanged, allegedly from armed police stationed to protect the Prime Minister's office. This incident highlighted tensions within Albanian society regarding political stability and governance.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Israel Withdraws from Gaza After Conflict

January 21st, 2009 16 years ago

Israel completed its military operation in the Gaza Strip, withdrawing its forces after a three-week engagement with Hamas. The operation began in late December and was aimed at stopping rocket fire from Gaza into Israeli territory. Following the withdrawal, both Israel and Hamas continued to experience intermittent exchanges of fire, indicating ongoing tensions in the region despite the military disengagement. This marked a significant moment in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Continue Reading