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On this day

February 28

1824

February 28, 1824

Catholic Association established

Daniel O'Connell established the Catholic Association, a pivotal organization that revolutionized mass political movements in Ireland. This association played a crucial role in the campaign for Catholic Emancipation, advocating for the civil rights of Irish Catholics who faced significant discrimination under British rule. Its innovative methods of political mobilization and fundraising set a precedent for future nationalist movements, ultimately contributing to the passage of the Roman Catholic Relief Act in 1829.

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1891

February 28, 1891

Kerry's Sole All-Ireland Hurling Title

The 1891 championship saw Kerry contest and win their first and only All-Ireland hurling title against Wexford. The game, played at Clonturk Park on February 28, 1892, was part of a triple-header. It was an exciting affair that controversially went to extra-time, the only occasion this has happened in an All-Ireland final, with Kerry eventually winning 2–3 to 1–5.

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1922

February 28, 1922

Dáil Éireann concludes Anglo-Irish Treaty debates

On February 28, 1922, Dáil Éireann concluded its contentious debates on the Anglo-Irish Treaty. This decision had profound and lasting consequences for Ireland, leading to the establishment of the Irish Free State and the partition of the island. The debates highlighted deep divisions within the Irish nationalist movement, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of the Irish Civil War. This marked a crucial moment in Ireland's struggle for independence and self-determination.

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1985

February 28, 1985

Preliminary Anglo-Irish Agreement discussions begin

Preliminary discussions commenced on February 28, 1985, laying the groundwork for what would become the Anglo-Irish Agreement. These talks represented a significant diplomatic initiative aimed at finding new approaches to resolving the conflict in Northern Ireland. The agreement, signed later that year, gave the Republic of Ireland an advisory role in Northern Ireland's affairs, much to the dismay of unionists but seen by nationalists as a step towards greater cooperation and peace.

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