August 5th in Irish History

1888 - Plan of Campaign

Tensions escalated on the Vandeleur estate in Kilrush, County Clare, as tenants organized under the Plan of Campaign. The confrontation between tenants and landlord forces highlighted the continuing struggle over land rights. Local resistance to evictions demonstrated the effectiveness of organized tenant action.

1922 - Arthur Griffith Dies

Arthur Griffith, founder of Sinn Féin and President of Dáil Éireann, died suddenly of a cerebral hemorrhage. His death, coming during a crucial phase of the Civil War, deprived the Free State government of one of its most experienced leaders. Griffith's passing marked a significant loss to the pro-Treaty cause and Irish politics generally.

1938 - Douglas Hyde Inauguration

Douglas Hyde was inaugurated as Ireland's first President, marking a significant milestone in Irish statehood. As a Protestant nationalist and Irish language scholar, Hyde's presidency symbolized the new state's aspirations to unite different traditions. His selection reflected the broader cultural nationalism he had championed through the Gaelic League.

1969 - Belfast Riots

Major rioting erupted in Belfast following civil rights demonstrations. The violence, centered in nationalist areas, marked an escalation in community tensions. These disturbances would contribute to the deployment of British troops in Northern Ireland.

1981 - Hunger Strike Developments

The families of remaining hunger strikers met to discuss the deteriorating situation in the Maze Prison. The deaths of five strikers in the previous week had created intense pressure for a resolution. The meetings reflected growing concern about the mounting death toll.