1915 - Lusitania Sinking

The RMS Lusitania was torpedoed off the Old Head of Kinsale, County Cork, with the loss of 1,198 lives. The sinking of this civilian liner by a German U-boat caused international outrage and had significant implications for Irish politics during World War I. The rescue efforts launched from Queenstown (now Cobh) demonstrated both the heroism of local Irish communities and the complex relationship between Ireland and the war effort.

1916 - Final Executions

The executions of the Easter Rising leaders concluded with the deaths of Seán MacDiarmada and James Connolly. Connolly's execution, carried out while he was strapped to a chair due to his wounds, particularly outraged public opinion. The manner of his death would become a powerful symbol of British brutality and contribute significantly to the growing sympathy for the republican cause.

1954 - Inter-Party Government

John A. Costello formed his second inter-party government, bringing together a coalition of parties opposed to Fianna Fáil. This administration would pursue significant economic and social reforms while maintaining Ireland's independent foreign policy stance.