The Declaratory Act
The Declaratory Act of 1720, which had asserted Britain’s right to legislate for Ireland and denied the Irish House of Lords its appellate authority, was repealed. This marked a significant moment in Irish legislative history, restoring a measure of autonomy to the Irish Parliament during the period of Grattan’s Parliament.
ireland
Second and third Catholic Relief Acts (4 May, 27 July)
Second Catholic Relief Act (4 May 1778) Allowed Catholics to own land on lease for 999 years or in fee simple (outright ownership), which had previously been forbidden or severely limited. Applied outside parliamentary boroughs, meaning Catholics still faced restrictions within towns with parliamentary representation. Required an oath of allegiance to the Crown but not renunciation of core Catholic beliefs, making it more acceptable to Catholics. Marked the first legal relaxation of the Penal Laws. Third Catholic Relief Act (27 July 1793)
ireland
James Gandon moves from London to Dublin; the first stone of his Customs House is laid on this date
James Gandon, one of the most renowned architects of his time, moved from London to Dublin in 1781. On August 9, 1781, the first stone of his most famous work, the Custom House in Dublin, was laid. This event marked the beginning of the construction of one of Dublin’s most iconic buildings and a significant moment in the city’s architectural history.
ireland
John Beresford is appointed Chief Commissioner of Revenue in Ireland
John Beresford, PC, PC (Ire) (14 March 1738 – 5 November 1805) was an Anglo-Irish statesman, MP for Co. Waterford and the last holder of the Chief Commissioner of Revenue in Ireland. He was appointed to the Chief Commissioner of Revenue on this date, December 16, 1780.
ireland