yesterday.ie
← All Dates

On this day

August 13

1704
Politics

August 13, 1704

Irish Parliament Passes Registration Act

On August 13, 1704, the Irish Parliament enacted the Registration Act, a significant piece of legislation within the broader Penal Laws. This act mandated that all Catholic priests in Ireland register with the authorities, provide sureties for good behavior, and adhere to strict geographical limitations. The measure was designed to suppress Catholic religious practice and consolidate Protestant ascendancy, effectively aiming to control and ultimately diminish the influence of the Catholic Church in Ireland. It represented a severe restriction on religious freedom and had profound long-term impacts on Irish society.

Read the full story →
1869
Other

August 13, 1869

Irish Land Conference Convenes in Dublin

On August 13, 1869, the Irish Land Conference commenced in Dublin, bringing together tenant farmers and sympathetic landlords to discuss the pressing issue of land reform. This gathering was a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for fair land ownership and tenant rights in Ireland. The conference aimed to establish principles that would guide future legislation, addressing the widespread discontent among tenant farmers regarding exploitative land practices. It underscored the growing recognition of the urgent need for significant changes to the land system, laying groundwork for subsequent land acts.

Read the full story →
1969
Battles

August 13, 1969

Belfast Riots during the Battle of the Bogside

On August 13, 1969, in solidarity with the ongoing Battle of the Bogside in Derry, protests erupted in Belfast, escalating into widespread violence. Nationalists clashed with the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) and loyalist groups, leading to attacks on police stations and property. This marked a significant intensification of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland, as demonstrations intended to draw police away from Derry quickly devolved into fierce street battles. The events in Belfast on this day were a critical turning point, further entrenching the divisions and contributing to the prolonged period known as The Troubles.

Read the full story →
1972
Sports

August 13, 1972

Liam Horner Wins Tour of Ireland

Liam Horner, a double Olympian, won the Tour of Ireland in 1972.

Read the full story →