June 17th in Irish History
1815 - Battle of Waterloo's Irish Heroes
The Duke of Wellington's forces, including significant numbers of Irish soldiers, achieved victory at Waterloo. The Irish regiments, particularly the Inniskillings and the Royal Irish Dragoons, played a crucial role in defeating Napoleon's forces. Their bravery at critical moments of the battle earned them lasting recognition in military history.
1939 - IRA Bombing Campaign Begins in England
The IRA initiated its S-Plan bombing campaign in England with a series of explosions in London. This marked the beginning of a sustained sabotage operation targeting British infrastructure. The campaign, designed to force British withdrawal from Northern Ireland, would continue until the outbreak of World War II.
1951 - First Modern Irish Music Festival
The first Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann opened in Mullingar, County Westmeath, establishing what would become Ireland's largest traditional music festival. Musicians from across the country gathered to compete and perform, creating a new platform for preserving and celebrating Irish musical heritage. The festival marked a revival in traditional Irish music.
1974 - Dublin-Monaghan Bombing Truth Commission
The Irish government established a commission to investigate the Dublin-Monaghan bombings of the previous month. The commission's formation came amid growing public pressure for answers about the worst single day of casualties during the Troubles. The investigation would continue to raise questions about collusion for decades to come.