1871 - Home Government Association

Isaac Butt presided over a crucial meeting of the Home Government Association in Dublin, where the organization formally adopted its constitution and political program. The gathering marked a significant step in the development of constitutional nationalism, establishing principles that would guide the Home Rule movement for decades to come. The meeting drew representatives from across Irish society, including both Catholics and Protestants, demonstrating Butt's ability to build broad support for Irish self-government within the United Kingdom.

1919 - Limerick Soviet

The Limerick Soviet was proclaimed as workers took control of the city in protest against British military restrictions. The strike committee effectively ran the city for two weeks, issuing its own currency, controlling food prices, and organizing basic services. This remarkable episode demonstrated the growing strength of organized labor in Ireland and its intersection with the independence struggle.

1972 - Northern Ireland Crisis

The British government announced the suspension of the Stormont parliament, implementing direct rule from Westminster in response to escalating violence and political crisis. This dramatic intervention marked the end of fifty years of unionist control over Northern Ireland's government.