1886 Belfast riots

In the late 19th century, Catholics began to migrate in large numbers to the prosperous city of Belfast in search of work.

A rumour that the reinforcements were sent by Gladstone to punish Belfast Protestants for opposing Home Rule spread throughout the city.

[6] It was encouraged by popular preachers such as Hugh Hanna and his Church of Ireland counterpart, the city's Orange Order Grand Master, Rev.

[10] On 22 June the reinforcements were sent home by the city government, although some were kept as trouble was expected on 12 July, the date of annual Protestant celebrations.

[11] Reinforcements had to be sent into Belfast again, and the threat of over 2,000 police officers and soldiers descending on the city caused the rioters to quit by 14 July.

Hanna agreed to comply with the city's request that he forgo the drumming and marching due to the tense situation.

[12] As the outing made its way through Belfast, disappointed local Protestants joined in to march with their own drums and anti-Catholic banners.

[13] An estimated £90,000 worth of property damage was incurred, and local economic activity was significantly compromised.