August 20

August 20, 1927

The Currency Act establishes a separate currency for the Irish Free State

August 20, 1919

The Irish Republican Army is established by the Dail Eireann

August 20, 1897

Ronald Ross, the first Scot to win a Nobel prize (in, 1902) dissected a mosquito and established the link with malaria.

August 20, 1880

Death of Ellen Kean, one of the greatest actresses of her time

August 20, 1876

The Irish Republican Brotherhood Supreme Council withdraws its support from the Home Rule movement

August 20, 1872

Sectarian rioting in Belfast which began on August 15 continues through this date

An expedition led by Robert OHara Burke, leaves Melbourne with the intention of making the first European crossing of Australia.

August 20, 1818

Birth in Dublin of scientist and Alpine traveller, John Ball

August 20, 1798

Richard R. Madden - writer, historian, traveller and abolitionist - is born in Dublin

August 20, 1778

Birth of Bernardo OHiggins, of Co. Meath origins, first Chilean head of state

August 20, 1488

Treaty of Sable, Charles VIII of France makes peace with Fransez II of Brittany.