1922 - Civil War Begins with Attack on Four Courts

The Irish Civil War commenced when Free State forces, under Michael Collins's orders, opened fire on anti-Treaty IRA forces occupying Dublin's Four Courts. Using artillery borrowed from the British, the bombardment marked the beginning of a conflict that would tear the new nation apart. The battle lasted for three days and resulted in the destruction of centuries of irreplaceable historical documents.

1838 - First Irish Rail Journey

The first railway line in Ireland opened between Dublin and Kingstown (now Dún Laoghaire). The historic journey, covering just under six miles, marked the beginning of Ireland's rail network. Designed by William Dargan, the line proved immensely popular with Dubliners and helped establish the foundations for Ireland's modern transportation system.

1973 - Northern Ireland Assembly Elections

The first elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly took place following the collapse of the Stormont Parliament. This new political experiment attempted to establish power-sharing between unionists and nationalists. The Sunningdale Agreement would later build upon this foundation, though it too would ultimately fail to bring lasting peace.

1912 - Home Rule League Rally in Dublin

John Redmond addressed a massive Home Rule rally in Dublin, drawing supporters from across Ireland. The gathering demonstrated the widespread popular support for Irish Home Rule at its height. Redmond's speech emphasized the peaceful and constitutional path to Irish self-governance, contrasting with the more militant nationalism emerging in Ulster.