The Tholsel Election
Archived: 31 October 2026
In 1713, Ireland marked the Peace of Utrecht with proclamations and thanksgiving, while remaining politically unstable. Queen Anne’s administration dissolved parliament, held elections and faced violent disorder during Dublin’s disputed Tholsel contest between Whigs and Tories. The new parliament, constrained by Poynings’ Law, passed only temporary supply legislation before prorogation. Authorities continued to fear Jacobite recruitment despite France’s withdrawal of support for the Pretender. Rural tensions appeared in Connacht through cattle houghing linked to land-use conflicts. The Church of Ireland reinforced political authority, Jonathan Swift became dean of St Patrick’s, and government addressed quarantine, mail security and post-war military retrenchment.