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October 20

1933
Culture

October 20, 1933

"A Soldier's Song" Becomes National Anthem

On October 20, 1933, "A Soldier's Song" (Amhrán na bhFiann) was officially adopted as the National Anthem of Ireland. Written by Peader Kearney and composed by Patrick Heeney in 1907, the song gained popularity as a marching anthem among Irish Volunteers and the Irish Republican Army during the War of Independence. Following the establishment of the Irish Free State, its use continued within the army. The Irish government formally purchased the copyright for the song on this date, solidifying its status as a symbol of Irish national identity. The anthem was later translated into Irish by Liam Ó Rinn.

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1986
Deaths

October 20, 1986

Death of General Michael J. Costello

General Michael J. Costello, a significant figure in early 20th-century Irish military and industrial life, passed away on October 20, 1986. Costello played a crucial role as a colonel commandant in the National Army during the Irish Civil War (1922–1923), remarkably at the young age of eighteen. His military career continued, and he later served as assistant chief-of-staff from 1937 to 1939. After his military service, Costello transitioned to a prominent role in industry, becoming the general manager of the Irish Sugar Company from 1945 to 1966, where he oversaw considerable expansion and modernization.

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1999
Deaths

October 20, 1999

Death of Jack Lynch

Jack Lynch, a prominent Irish politician and sportsman, died on October 20, 1999. Born in Cork in 1917, Lynch was an accomplished Gaelic footballer and hurler before embarking on a distinguished political career. He served as leader of Fianna Fáil from 1966 to 1979 and held the office of Taoiseach (Prime Minister of Ireland) twice, from 1966 to 1973 and again from 1977 to 1979. His premiership was marked by significant challenges, including the outbreak of The Troubles in Northern Ireland and Ireland's entry into the European Economic Community. Lynch was widely respected for his calm demeanor and integrity during turbulent times in Irish history.

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