Historical Events tagged with "belfast"

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.

Military & Warfare

End of Operation Banner in Northern Ireland

July 31st, 2007 17 years ago

Operation Banner marked the British Army's presence in Northern Ireland, commencing in 1969. By the summer of 2007, the British government announced the end of this operation, which had lasted almost 38 years. The decision was made following significant decreases in violence and advancements in the peace process, particularly the Good Friday Agreement of 1998. The operation was a response to the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland involving nationalist and unionist communities, primarily centered in Belfast and Derry. The final battalion was withdrawn from the province, symbolizing a new era of stability.

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Crime & Law

Massive Bank Heist in Belfast

December 20th, 2004 20 years ago

A group of criminals executed a sophisticated robbery at the Northern Bank, located at Donegall Square West in Belfast, stealing £26.5 million in cash. The heist was meticulously planned, involving a total of 12 individuals who took advantage of the bank's security vulnerabilities. The operation led to widespread media attention and raised serious concerns over bank security in Northern Ireland, showcasing how organized crime was adapting to modern security measures.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Protestant Loyalists Picket Catholic School in Belfast

September 3rd, 2001 23 years ago

In Belfast, a group of Protestant loyalists organized a picket outside the Holy Cross Primary School for girls. The protest stemmed from ongoing tensions between the Protestant and Catholic communities in Northern Ireland, with loyalists expressing opposition towards Catholic institutions. The picket garnered considerable media attention and highlighted the deep-seated divisions and sectarian strife that characterized the region during this period.

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Politics & Government

Devolution of Power to Northern Ireland Executive

December 2nd, 1999 25 years ago

The United Kingdom devolved political power in Northern Ireland to the newly established Northern Ireland Executive. This marked a significant step in the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, aiming to promote peace and local governance in the region. The event was pivotal in addressing the historical and political complexities of Northern Ireland, allowing for self-governance and giving local politicians the authority to make decisions affecting their communities.

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Politics & Government

Good Friday Agreement Marks Peace Effort

April 10th, 1998 26 years ago

The Good Friday Agreement was signed in Belfast, Northern Ireland, by key political leaders including Tony Blair, Bertie Ahern, and representatives from various political parties. This landmark accord established new governmental structures and addressed issues related to governance, civil rights, and policing, aiming to end decades of conflict known as The Troubles. It created a framework for power-sharing between unionists and nationalists, offering a peaceful resolution to longstanding disputes. The agreement also recognized the importance of human rights and equality, setting out guidelines for cooperation and conflict resolution.

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Politics & Government

Peace Talks Commence Without Sinn Féin

June 10th, 1996 28 years ago

The Northern Ireland peace talks began in Belfast, aiming to address decades of conflict. Notably, Sinn Féin, the political wing of the Irish Republican Army, did not participate, causing significant concern among observers. The talks involved various unionist and nationalist parties, focusing on issues like governance and police reform. While the discussions were a step towards peace, the absence of Sinn Féin raised questions about the legitimacy and inclusivity of the process, as Sinn Féin was a key player in the conflict.

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Politics & Government

Clinton Champions Northern Ireland Peace Rally

November 30th, 1995 29 years ago

Bill Clinton addressed a large rally at Belfast City Hall in support of the Northern Ireland peace process, emphasizing the need for resolution and reconciliation. He labeled the Irish Republican Army fighters as 'yesterday's men,' urging a move away from violence. Clinton's visit was seen as a strong endorsement of the peace efforts, drawing attention to the need for dialogue and cooperation among conflicting parties in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Belfast Bombing Claims Ten Lives

October 23rd, 1993 31 years ago

A premature explosion of a Provisional IRA bomb in Belfast resulted in the loss of ten lives, including the bomber. The explosion occurred during a planned attack, showcasing the tensions within the city. This tragic incident highlighted the ongoing violence during The Troubles, as the group aimed to further their political agenda through violent means. The immediate casualties sparked outrage and mourning within the community.

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Military & Warfare

Michael Stone Attacks Provisional IRA Funeral

March 16th, 1988 36 years ago

Michael Stone, an Ulster loyalist militant, launched an assault on a Provisional IRA funeral in Belfast using pistols and grenades. The attack resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including a member of the Provisional IRA, and over 60 injuries among attendees, making it a significant incident amidst the ongoing sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.

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