1741 - Great Frost Begins

Ireland experienced the first signs of what would become known as the "Great Frost." This devastating weather event would last until April 1742, destroying crops and causing widespread famine. The catastrophe marked one of the worst weather-related disasters in Irish history, leading to significant loss of life and social upheaval.

1845 - Famine Relief Commission

The British government established the Famine Relief Commission to address the growing potato blight crisis. The commission began collecting reports from across Ireland about crop failures and food shortages. Their initial responses would prove inadequate to address the scale of the impending catastrophe.

1917 - Sinn Féin Convention

Sinn Féin held a crucial convention in Dublin's Mansion House, consolidating its new revolutionary direction. Éamon de Valera's leadership was confirmed as the party adopted a more explicitly republican position. The meeting marked Sinn Féin's transformation into the dominant force in Irish nationalism.

1964 - RTÉ Expansion

Radio Telefís Éireann announced major developments in television broadcasting, including new regional studios. The expansion marked a significant step in modernizing Irish media and communications. These changes reflected growing confidence in Ireland's cultural and economic development.

1993 - Peace Declaration

The Irish and British governments intensified work on what would become the Downing Street Declaration. Secret negotiations explored new frameworks for peace in Northern Ireland. These discussions represented crucial groundwork for the developing peace process.