1836 - National Education Expansion

The National Education system underwent a major expansion across Ireland, with dozens of new schools opening in previously underserved areas. This development marked a significant step in providing formal education to Ireland's rural population. The expansion included the construction of new school buildings and the training of additional teachers.

The growth of the national school system had profound social and cultural implications. While the system aimed to provide non-denominational education, in practice most schools developed strong religious affiliations. The expansion helped increase literacy rates but also raised concerns about the anglicization of Irish-speaking areas.

1922 - Collins Intelligence Network

Michael Collins expanded his intelligence network throughout the country, building on the successful system he had developed during the War of Independence. This enhanced network combined both military and civilian operatives, creating a sophisticated information-gathering system crucial for the new Free State government.

The network proved particularly valuable as tensions rose over the Anglo-Irish Treaty. Collins's intelligence operations provided vital information about anti-Treaty activities and helped the provisional government prepare for potential conflict. The system demonstrated Collins's organizational genius and his understanding of the importance of intelligence in modern warfare.

1957 - Border Campaign Intensifies

The IRA's Border Campaign saw increased activity along the Northern Ireland border, with coordinated attacks on security installations and infrastructure. The campaign, also known as Operation Harvest, represented the IRA's most sustained military effort since the 1920s. The operations targeted RUC stations, B-Special posts, and British Army facilities.

Despite initial successes, the campaign faced significant challenges including limited public support and effective counter-measures by security forces on both sides of the border. The intensification of activities during this period strained IRA resources and tested the organization's military capabilities, ultimately contributing to the campaign's eventual end in 1962.