Lagan Navigation
Archived: 12 October 2026
In 1763, Ireland’s expanding economy exposed social and religious inequalities. The Treaty of Paris ended the Seven Years’ War, reshaping imperial trade while restrictions continued to limit Irish commerce, except the linen industry. In Ulster, the Hearts of Oak protested county cess, compulsory road labour, tithes and established-church charges; troops and local concessions contained them. Conversely, the Lagan Navigation opened between Belfast and Lisburn, improving transport for linen and bulk goods while highlighting unequal costs of development. Hugh Percy became lord lieutenant, and the Freeman’s Journal began publishing. Catholic and Presbyterian institutions also developed despite penal laws and Protestant privilege.
