Birth of Dr. William Drennan in Belfast; Physician, Poet, Educationalist Political Radical

Dr. William Drennan is born in Belfast on May 23, 1754. A physician, poet, educationalist, and political radical, he is best known as one of the founding figures of the Society of United Irishmen, a movement dedicated to democratic reform and Irish unity beyond religious lines. Drennan’s poetry—often political and emotionally charged—includes the early use of the term “Emerald Isle” to describe Ireland. He is also remembered for his progressive educational ideals, helping to found the Royal Belfast Academical Institution. Though less celebrated than some of his revolutionary peers, Drennan’s influence on Irish political and cultural identity endures.