Historical Events tagged with "Ireland"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

End of Broadcasting Ban on IRA and Sinn Féin

January 11th, 1994 31 years ago

The Irish Government lifted a 15-year ban on IRA and Sinn Féin broadcasts, marking a significant shift in media policy. The decision came amid ongoing peace negotiations in Northern Ireland, aiming to foster dialogue and reduce tensions. This change allowed for public dissemination of the voices and perspectives of the Irish Republican Army and its political party. It introduced a new era of transparency in discussions surrounding the conflict in Northern Ireland.

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Crime & Law

Shergar Kidnapping: A Notorious Horse Heist

February 8th, 1983 42 years ago

Irish race horse Shergar was stolen by armed men from the Ballymany Stud in Ireland in an audacious ransom attempt. Allegations arose that members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (PIRA) were involved in the heist, demanding a ransom for the prized thoroughbred. Despite extensive efforts to locate Shergar, including media appeals and searches, the horse was never found, leading to widespread speculation about his fate. This incident captured public attention and highlighted the intersection of sport and crime during a tumultuous period in Irish history.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Christopher Ewart-Biggs

July 21st, 1976 48 years ago

Christopher Ewart-Biggs was assassinated in Dublin, Ireland, by members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA). The attack occurred as he traveled in his car, resulting in an explosion from a bomb placed underneath the vehicle. Ewart-Biggs was a prominent British diplomat, serving as the ambassador to the Republic of Ireland, and he was a key figure in British-Irish relations during a time of heightened tensions related to the Northern Ireland conflict.

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Military & Warfare

German U-29 Sinks HMS Courageous

September 17th, 1939 85 years ago

On September 17, 1939, the German U-boat U-29 sank the British aircraft carrier HMS Courageous off the coast of Ireland. The submarine fired torpedoes at the carrier, striking it and causing significant damage. Within minutes, the Courageous capsized, leading to the loss of many crew members. This attack marked one of the first significant naval engagements of World War II involving submarines and aircraft carriers, showcasing the effectiveness of submarine warfare in the early stages of the conflict.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Cork Hunger Strike by Irish Republicans Concludes

November 12th, 1920 104 years ago

After a prolonged struggle, the Cork hunger strike led by Irish republicans concluded tragically with three deaths. The hunger strike began as a protest against the treatment of political prisoners, with the participants demanding better conditions and recognition of their status. The escalating situation garnered significant attention in Ireland and abroad, highlighting the plight of Irish republicans and their resistance against British rule. Activists and supporters rallied in solidarity, raising awareness about their cause, which centered on civil liberties and national sovereignty. The deaths of the three hunger strikers ultimately intensified public support for the republican movement.

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Politics & Government

Randolph Churchill's Ulster Speech Against Home Rule

September 22nd, 1885 139 years ago

Lord Randolph Churchill delivered a significant speech in Ulster, vehemently opposing the Irish Home Rule movement. This oration drew considerable attention and highlighted the political divisions of the time. Churchill insisted that self-governance for Ireland would undermine the unity of the United Kingdom and threaten British interests. His passionate rhetoric resonated with many Unionists in the region, reinforcing their resistance to Home Rule. The event became a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate surrounding Irish self-governance and its implications for British political stability.

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Crime & Law

Execution of the Manchester Martyrs

November 23rd, 1867 157 years ago

The Manchester Martyrs were hanged in Manchester for their involvement in the murder of a police officer during a daring attempt to rescue two members of the Irish Republican Brotherhood. This act took place in front of a crowd, symbolizing the intense political tensions surrounding Irish nationalism in the UK. The three men, John Daly, Michael O'Brien, and William Philip Allen, were convicted after a sensational trial that captured public attention and highlighted the conflict between British authorities and Irish nationalists.

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Technology & Innovation

James Buchanan and Queen Victoria Connect via Telegraph

August 16th, 1858 166 years ago

U.S. President James Buchanan and Queen Victoria exchanged greetings over the newly completed transatlantic telegraph cable. The historic moment occurred at a ceremony celebrating the first successful communication across the Atlantic Ocean. While initially a groundbreaking achievement, the connection suffered from weak signals, leading to a cessation of services within a few weeks.

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Technology & Innovation

First Transatlantic Telegraph Cable Completed

August 5th, 1858 166 years ago

Cyrus West Field and a team successfully laid the first transatlantic telegraph cable, connecting North America and Europe. This ambitious project, which followed several unsuccessful attempts, was celebrated as a technological marvel. Spanning the Atlantic Ocean, the cable aimed to revolutionize communication across continents. Unfortunately, it would only operate for a brief period before malfunctioning, leading to significant challenges in maintaining long-distance communication.

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