Battle of Boyne, the Twelfth, Orangemen's Day: Here's everything you need to know about the day and its significance

Battle of Boyne continues to shape the cultural and political landscape of Northern Ireland. It is notably one of the most significant events in the history of Ireland.

Across the river Boyne, near the town of Drogheda in Ireland, Catholic King James II and Protestant King William III fought a war which is now remembered as "Battle of Boyne".

Even though this battle was fought on July 1, it is commemorated on July12 – the day when the army of Catholic King James II was destroyed.


After the Battle of Boyne, King James II became the last Catholic king of England. King James II, who was also the father-in-law of King William III fled to France post defeat.

Victory of King William III during Battle of Boyne ensured Protestant Ascendancy in Ireland.

Annual commemorations of the Battle of Boyne by the Orange order has often sparked controversies. The Orange order is an International Protestant fraternal Order. These controversies have mainly hit in Northern Ireland and some parts of Scotland.

The members of the Orange Order remember this battle through parades in the city. They dress in Orange, carry placards and banner during the parades.

Pipes and drums are also played during annual commemoration parades by the Orange Order members.

Irish nationalists and British Unionists have reportedly been involved in confrontations during several occasions of Battle of Boyne commemoration parades.

As the date of commemoration is noted in calenders today, many users have been wondering and are puzzled. Northern Irish people get an extra bank holiday for this day.

UK resident Paul Griffin takes to Twitter and writes

"Think tomorrow might be a rough day. I’ve got an all day meeting called the Battle of the Boyne in the diary and I am apparently the organiser".

Commemoration is lesser known in the rest of the United Kingdom but marks a crucial day for the Northern Irish communities.

FAQs

Q1:When was Battle of Boyne fought?
The Battle of Boyne was fought on July 1, 1690. But the day is commemorated on July 12.

Q2:Where was Battle of Boyne fought?
Battle of Boyne was fought across the river Boyne, near the town of Drogheda in Ireland.