The lesser known Irish Bloody Sunday (the other being the Derry 1972 Bloody Sunday) took place during the Irish War of Independence on this day in 1920. On the morning of November 21, Michael Collins's men killed 14 British intelligence officers. Later that afternoon during a GAA match at Croke Park in Dublin, British forces opened fire on Irish civilians watching the match. 14 … [Read more...] about November 21, 1920
Today In History
August 10, 1920
James O'Neill, father of American playwright Eugene O'Neill, died on August 10 of 1920. With James's background in theater, it is evident that he provided Eugene with his first glance into the world of theater and playwriting. James O'Neill was born in Kilkenny and immigrated to Buffalo, NY. His most famous role in the theater was as the Count of Monte Cristo. James O'Neill is … [Read more...] about August 10, 1920
March 25, 1920
On this day in 1920, the first "Black and Tans," or auxiliary policemen, officially arrived in Ireland. 1919 saw the first declaration of an independent Irish Republic, which in turn led to IRA guerilla attacks on the Royal Irish Constabulary. The Royal Constabulary in turn hired Temporary Constables from 1920-1921. The force was established as a means of suppressing … [Read more...] about March 25, 1920
June 11, 1919
Actor Richard Todd, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his role as Cpl. Lachlan McLachlan in 1949's The Hasty Heart, was born on June 11, 1919 in Dublin. After training for a military career, Todd changed his sights and enrolled at the Italia Conti Academy of Theater Arts in London. He first appeared in a production of Twelfth Night in 1936. Todd enlisted in the British … [Read more...] about June 11, 1919
February 3, 1919
On this day in 1919, Eamon de Valera escaped from Lincoln Prison in England. His escape was aided by fellow nationalists Harry Boland and Michael Collins. De Valera's escape entailed a copy of the key which fit the locks of the jail. He also dressed up as a woman. Several other Sinn Fein members who had been arrested along with him on May 17, 1918 for allegedly taking part in … [Read more...] about February 3, 1919