1873 - Home Rule Conference

Isaac Butt convened a major Home Rule conference in Dublin, bringing together various strands of constitutional nationalism. The meeting established the principles and structure of the Home Rule movement, setting out a program for achieving Irish self-government through parliamentary means. This gathering marked a significant step in the development of constitutional nationalism and established patterns of political organization that would influence Irish nationalism for decades.

1916 - Military Tribunals

The British military tribunals continued their processing of Easter Rising prisoners, with hundreds facing charges under martial law. The arbitrary nature of many arrests and the harsh sentences imposed would contribute to growing public resentment. These tribunals, operating outside normal judicial procedures, demonstrated the extent of British military authority in Ireland.

1950 - Mother and Child Scheme

Dr. Noel Browne introduced his controversial Mother and Child Scheme to the cabinet, proposing free medical care for mothers and children regardless of income. The scheme, though widely supported by the public, would face fierce opposition from both the medical profession and the Catholic Church. This initiative would become a defining moment in the relationship between church and state in modern Ireland.