In 1720 a number of Irish MPs petitioned the King for a charter to set up a national bank of Ireland. When the Parliament of Ireland met to debate the issue the following year, however, it was voted out after the first paragraph. What’s more, both Houses passed severe resolutions declaring not only that an Irish bank would be a national threat, but that anyone who pursued the idea would be considered an "enemy to his country".
To find out more, visit the digital exhibition of the documents in the display case.
The Library’s monthly display continues to be virtual while many staff continue to work from home.