1779 in Irish History — yesterday.ie

November 4, 1779

Dublin Volunteers rally on College Green

On November 4, 1779, approximately 1,000 members of the Dublin Volunteers, a Protestant militia movement, assembled on College Green in Dublin. This demonstration, held near the Irish Parliament, was a significant display of their political influence. The Volunteers, initially formed to defend Ireland during the American War of Independence, used this occasion to press for greater legislative independence for the Irish Parliament and the removal of trade restrictions imposed by Britain. The event underscored a growing desire for Irish autonomy and economic freedom.

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1779

Politics

December 13, 1779

Irish Free Trade Demands Met

On December 13, 1779, the British government acceded to the demands for the removal of restrictions on Irish free trade throughout the colonies. This significant political development followed a period of intense pressure from Ireland, including a widespread boycott of British goods and a notable parade by the armed Irish Volunteers in College Green, Dublin, in November of the same year. The Volunteers, who had marched under the powerful slogan of 'free trade or else,' successfully compelled the British authorities to grant their economic and political demands, marking a crucial moment in Ireland's pursuit of greater autonomy.

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