Limerick Treaty

The Limerick Treaty, signed in 1691, concluded the Williamite War in Ireland. It provided terms for the surrender of the Irish Catholic forces loyal to King James II after his defeat by William of Orange. The treaty aimed to protect the rights of Catholics and offer them certain freedoms, including land rights and religious practice. However, many of its provisions were later undermined by the Penal Laws, which severely restricted Catholic rights in Ireland. The treaty is significant as it highlights the complex ethnic and religious tensions in Irish history and the impact of colonial rule.