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May 18

1922
Battles

May 18, 1922

Escalation of Violence in Belfast

In May 1922, Belfast experienced a significant escalation of sectarian violence. On May 18, three Catholics were killed, followed by the deaths of three Protestants the next day. This period was marked by intense unrest, with a total of 44 Catholics and 22 Protestants losing their lives in the city throughout that month. The violence reflected the deep-seated political and religious divisions in Northern Ireland during the tumultuous aftermath of the War of Independence and the partition of Ireland, highlighting the severe human cost of the conflict.

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1939
Other

May 18, 1939

First Aircraft Lands at Rineanna (Shannon Airport)

On May 18, 1939, the first aircraft successfully landed at the newly established airfield in Rineanna, County Clare. This site would later become famously known as Shannon Airport, a pivotal hub for transatlantic travel. The development of this airport marked a significant milestone in Irish aviation history, enhancing connectivity and contributing to the economic growth of the region. Its strategic location on the western coast of Ireland made it an essential stopover for flights between Europe and North America, playing a crucial role in international air travel.

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1960
Deaths

May 18, 1960

Death of Sir Robert McCarrison, Medical Scientist

Sir Robert McCarrison, a distinguished medical scientist born in County Armagh, passed away on May 18, 1960. Renowned globally for his expertise on deficiency diseases, particularly goitre and cretinism, McCarrison's pioneering research significantly advanced understanding of nutrition and public health. His work emphasized the link between diet and disease, influencing medical practice and public health policies worldwide. His contributions left a lasting legacy in preventive medicine and nutritional science, making him a notable figure in Irish scientific history.

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