The Twelfth (Ireland)

The Twelfth, also known as Orangemen’s Day, is a significant Ulster Protestant celebration in Ireland, commemorating the 1690 victory of the Battle of the Boyne by Protestant King William of Orange over Catholic King James in Northern Ireland. This victory ensured continued Protestant domination in Ireland. On this day, the Orange Order and British Unionists organize parades featuring marching bands and Union Flags adorn the streets. However, these celebrations often lead to confrontations between British Unionists and Irish Nationalists, making it one of the most controversial dates in the British and Irish calendars.