December 14th in Irish History

1785 - Catholic Rights

The Catholic Committee held a significant meeting in Dublin to plan new strategies for civil rights. Led by John Keogh, the committee adopted more assertive approaches to campaigning. Their methods would influence later constitutional nationalist movements.

1918 - Election Results

Early returns from the general election indicated a massive Sinn Féin victory. The party was poised to sweep aside the Irish Parliamentary Party across much of Ireland. These results would transform Irish politics.

1921 - Treaty Support

Arthur Griffith and Michael Collins continued their strong defense of the Treaty in the Dáil. They argued that the agreement offered the best achievable path to freedom. Their speeches marked crucial interventions in the treaty debates.

1955 - UN Membership

Ireland was formally admitted to the United Nations, marking an important milestone in Irish diplomacy. The membership demonstrated Ireland's growing role in international affairs. Éamon de Valera had long campaigned for Ireland's inclusion.

1993 - Downing Street

The British and Irish governments finalized preparations for their joint peace declaration. The document would offer new frameworks for resolving the Northern Ireland conflict. These developments marked crucial progress toward peace.