May 16th in Irish History
1866 - Fenian Rising Plans
The Irish Republican Brotherhood leadership met in Dublin to finalize plans for a nationwide uprising. The meeting, chaired by James Stephens, revealed both the ambition and limitations of Fenian military preparations. Despite extensive organization, the plans highlighted the challenges facing the movement, including limited arms and the effectiveness of British intelligence.
1916 - Casement's Trial Preparations
Roger Casement's defense team began preparing for his trial for high treason, gathering evidence about his humanitarian work in the Congo and Amazon. The preparations would reveal the complex character of Casement and his journey from British diplomat to Irish revolutionary. His case would become a cause célèbre, drawing international attention to the Irish independence struggle.
1981 - Hunger Strike Developments
Raymond McCreesh and Patsy O'Hara joined the hunger strike in the Maze Prison, escalating the protest following recent deaths. Their decision to join the strike demonstrated the continuing determination of republican prisoners to resist criminalization. The growing number of hunger strikers increased pressure on both the British government and the republican leadership.