1691 - Battle of Aughrim

The Battle of Aughrim, the bloodiest battle ever fought on Irish soil, took place in County Galway. This decisive conflict of the Williamite War saw the Jacobite forces of James II suffer a catastrophic defeat against William III's army. The battle resulted in over 7,000 casualties and marked the effective end of Jacobite resistance in Ireland, with profound consequences for Irish Catholic society.

1849 - First Orange Hall Opens in Belfast

Belfast's first dedicated Orange Hall opened on Clifton Street, marking a significant development in Ulster Protestant culture. The building became a center for Orange Order activities and symbolized the growing institutional strength of Protestant fraternal organizations in the north of Ireland. This hall would serve as a model for numerous others built throughout Ulster.

1966 - Riots Erupt in Belfast

Serious rioting broke out in Belfast following Orange Order parades, marking one of the worst outbreaks of sectarian violence since the 1930s. The disturbances, which continued for several days, resulted in numerous injuries and significant property damage. These events foreshadowed the growing tensions that would eventually lead to the Troubles.

1796 - Birth of George Petrie, Antiquarian

George Petrie, the renowned Irish artist, musician, and antiquarian, was born in Dublin. Petrie would become one of Ireland's most important cultural figures, dedicating his life to preserving Irish music and documenting ancient monuments. His work with the Royal Irish Academy and Ordnance Survey helped establish modern Irish archaeology.

1922 - National Army Captures Drogheda

During the Irish Civil War, National Army forces successfully captured Drogheda from anti-Treaty IRA forces. This victory represented a significant strategic gain for the pro-Treaty side, securing vital railway links between Dublin and Belfast. The operation demonstrated the growing military capability of the newly formed National Army.