On this day in 1834, Daniel O’Connell, the Irish political leader often referred to as “The Liberator” or “The Emancipator,” sparked a debate in the British House of Commons by calling for a repeal to the 1801 Act of Union. During a five-hour speech, O’Connell questioned the 2/17 tax that Britain had levied on Ireland, calling it a “fraction purposely introduced in order that … [Read more...] about April 22, 1834
Today In History
February 22, 1832
On this day in 1832, in Glasnevin, Dublin, the first ever burial took place at Glasnevin Cemetery. Officially named Prospect Cemetery but rarely referred to as such, the cemetery was the first non-denominational burial ground in Ireland. Daniel O'Connell was among the voices that called for a space where anyone could bury their dead. This was especially important for Catholics, … [Read more...] about February 22, 1832
December 8, 1831
James Hoban, the Kilkenny born architect who designed the U.S. White house, died on this day in 1831. Hoban worked in Ireland as a wheelright and carpenter until his early twenties, when he was given an advanced student placement at the Dublin Society's Drawing School. He excelled in his studies and became an apprentice under Cork architect Thomas Ivory. After the American … [Read more...] about December 8, 1831
September 1, 1830
The Dublin Zoo opened on this day in 1830. Then a private society, it was founded by anatomists and physicists, and was financially supported by wealthy subscribers. In 1840, the society began opening its gates to the public on Sundays, for a one penny entrance fee. By this time, the zoo held 72 birds and 46 mammals; all of which had been donated by the London Zoo. Today, the … [Read more...] about September 1, 1830
August 3, 1823
Thomas Francis Meagher, exiled Irish nationalist, brigadier general for the union in the U.S. Civil War, and acting governor of Montana, was born on August 3, 1823 in Waterford, Ireland. After joining the Young Irelanders and being tried for sedition following the rebellion of 1848, Meagher was exiled to "Van Diemen's land" or Tasmania. He fled to America, studying law and … [Read more...] about August 3, 1823