George Berkeley was born to an English noble family at Dysart Castle, near Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny on March 12, 1685. He attended Trinity College Dublin. He was recognized for his contributions to philosophy and theology, as well as his studies on physics, mathematics, relativity and optics. He is the father of the concept of immaterialism, the philosophical realm of thinking … [Read more...] about January 14, 1753
Today In History
October 30, 1751
Irish born playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan was born in Dublin on this day in 1751. His family moved to England when he was just seven. Sheridan grew up in a family immersed in theater. His mother Frances was a playwright and novelist, best known for her book "The Memoirs of Sidney Biddulph." His father Thomas was an actor, manager and writer. Richard Brinsley Sheridan is … [Read more...] about October 30, 1751
April 13, 1742
On this day in 1742, Handel’s Messiah premiered in Dublin to an audience of 700. The premiere was the culmination of a season of concerts performed during the winter of 1741–1742. The idea originally came about by an invitation from the Duke of Devonshire, who was then serving as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. Both St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral had permitted … [Read more...] about April 13, 1742
August 18, 1728
James Caulfeild, the 4th Viscount and 1st Earl of Charlemont, was born in Dublin on this day in 1728. Lord Charlemont was well known for his love of classical artwork, music and literature. He was politically connected to both Henry Flood and Henry Grattan, who were nationalists. Although he was an Earl, the first President of the Royal Irish Academy, a member of the Royal … [Read more...] about August 18, 1728
January 12, 1729
Edmund Burke, Irish statesman and philosopher, was born on this day in Dublin Ireland. Burke, who emigrated to London and served for many years in the House of Commons, is viewed as the founder of modern Conservatism. He is remembered for his support of Irish independence from Britain, and the American Revolution of which he famously said: "Young man, there is America -- which … [Read more...] about January 12, 1729