Historical Events tagged with "british government"

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

Provisional IRA Mortar Attack on Downing Street

February 7th, 1991 34 years ago

A mortar attack was launched by the Provisional IRA targeting 10 Downing Street, the official residence of the British Prime Minister. This attack took place in the early hours of the morning, using a homemade mortar. The incident highlighted the ongoing conflict in Northern Ireland, known as The Troubles, and aimed to strike at the heart of British power in London, showcasing the capabilities and intentions of the Provisional IRA during that tumultuous period.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

IRA Mortar Attack on RUC in Newry

February 28th, 1985 40 years ago

Members of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) launched a mortar attack on the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) police station in Newry, Northern Ireland, resulting in the deaths of nine police officers. The assault was part of the ongoing conflict between Irish republicans and British security forces, motivated by the IRA's goal of ending British rule in Northern Ireland. This incident marked one of the deadliest attacks against security forces during the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland that spanned several decades.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

IRA Prisoners Hijack Lorry for Escape

September 25th, 1983 41 years ago

Thirty-eight prisoners of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), armed with six handguns, hijacked a prison meals lorry to orchestrate a dramatic escape from the Maze Prison in Northern Ireland. This well-planned operation was executed amidst the ongoing conflict surrounding the Troubles, a period marked by intense political and sectarian strife in the region. The prisoners' escape underscored the vulnerabilities in the prison security system and highlighted the extent to which the IRA was willing to go to free its members.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Maze Prison Hunger Strike Concludes After Deaths

October 3rd, 1981 43 years ago

The hunger strike at Maze Prison, aimed at gaining political prisoner status for Irish republicans, ended after seven months and the deaths of ten prisoners. The strike began in March, with Bobby Sands as a prominent figure, garnering international attention. The protesters sought recognition of their rights and improved conditions, but the government's refusal to negotiate led to a tragic climax. Ultimately, the strike concluded without any significant concessions from the British government, highlighting the deep-rooted tensions in Northern Ireland.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

SAS Storms Iranian Embassy in London

May 5th, 1980 44 years ago

After a six-day siege, the British Special Air Service (SAS) stormed the Iranian embassy in London, successfully bringing a hostage crisis to an end. The operation began when six armed gunmen took 26 people hostage in the embassy, demanding the release of prisoners in Iran. The British government, under pressure to resolve the situation, ultimately authorized the military intervention. On May 5, armed commandos stormed the building, killing five gunmen and freeing all hostages unharmed, showcasing the effectiveness of special forces.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Direct Rule Established from London in Northern Ireland

March 4th, 1976 49 years ago

The Northern Ireland Constitutional Convention was formally dissolved by the British government, leading to the imposition of direct rule from London. The dissolution came as a result of the failure to achieve an agreement on power-sharing and was part of broader efforts to address the ongoing political instability in Northern Ireland. Following the decision, the British Parliament assumed control over the governance of Northern Ireland, a move viewed as a necessary but contentious step during a prolonged period of conflict known as the Troubles.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Daniel O'Connell Arrested for Criminal Conspiracy

October 14th, 1843 181 years ago

Daniel O'Connell, a prominent Irish nationalist, was arrested by British authorities in Dublin, accused of criminal conspiracy. The arrest stemmed from his leadership role in a mass meeting advocating for Catholic emancipation and Irish legislative independence. O'Connell's mobilization of popular support had raised significant tensions between the Irish populace and the British government.

Continue Reading