May 28th in Irish History

1798 - Battle of Oulart Hill

In a significant early engagement of the 1798 Rebellion, United Irishmen forces defeated British troops at the Battle of Oulart Hill in County Wexford. The victory inspired further uprisings across Ireland, as it demonstrated the potential of a united force of Irish rebels to challenge British authority.

1867 - Fenian Prisoners Deported to Australia

On this day, several members of the Fenian Brotherhood were deported to Australia after their failed uprising earlier that year. These men were seen as martyrs for the Irish nationalist cause, and their exile became a rallying point for Irish independence movements.

1923 - Irish Civil War Officially Ends

The Irish Civil War officially ended, marking the conclusion of a bitter conflict between pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty forces. The war left deep scars on Irish society and politics, but it also solidified the establishment of the Irish Free State under the terms of the Anglo-Irish Treaty.

1936 - Public Order Act Passed

The Irish government passed the Public Order Act to curb the influence of extremist political groups, including the Blue Shirts. The legislation was controversial, highlighting tensions in Irish politics during the 1930s as the young state navigated its identity.

1998 - Irish Rugby Team Wins Triple Crown

Ireland's national rugby team achieved a major victory by winning the Triple Crown, defeating England, Scotland, and Wales in the Six Nations Championship. This accomplishment was celebrated as a moment of pride and unity for Irish sports fans.