1891 - Plan of Campaign

The Plan of Campaign achieved significant rent reductions across numerous Irish estates, marking a major victory for coordinated tenant action. This innovative strategy, which involved tenants collectively withholding rent unless landlords agreed to reductions, demonstrated the effectiveness of organized resistance. The campaign's success on this day included settlements on several major estates, providing relief to thousands of tenant farmers.

The achievements of the Plan of Campaign went beyond immediate rent reductions. The movement helped develop new forms of rural organization and solidarity, creating networks that would influence future agrarian activism. The campaign's success also contributed to the broader transformation of Irish land ownership, pressuring both landlords and the government to consider more comprehensive land reform measures.

1921 - Limerick Curfew

British forces extended the curfew in Limerick city, imposing severe restrictions on civilian movement between dusk and dawn. The measure, which confined residents to their homes from 6 PM to 6 AM, represented an escalation of military control over civilian life. The curfew particularly impacted workers and businesses, disrupting the city's economic and social fabric.

The extended curfew generated significant local resistance and innovative forms of civil disobedience. Local businesses adapted their operating hours, while workers organized shift changes to minimize the curfew's impact. The restrictions ultimately strengthened community solidarity and support for the independence movement, demonstrating how harsh military measures often counterproductively increased civilian resistance.

1991 - Birmingham Six Released

The Birmingham Six were released from prison after their convictions were quashed by the Court of Appeal, marking one of the most significant miscarriages of justice in British legal history. Hugh Callaghan, Patrick Hill, Gerard Hunter, Richard McIlkenny, William Power, and John Walker had spent 16 years in prison for pub bombings they did not commit. Their release followed years of campaigning and investigations that revealed serious flaws in the original police investigation and trial.

The case had profound implications for the British justice system and Anglo-Irish relations. It led to major reforms in police procedures and the criminal justice system, including the establishment of the Criminal Cases Review Commission. The case also highlighted the prejudice faced by the Irish community in Britain during the Troubles and contributed to growing public skepticism about anti-terrorism measures.