Birth of John Claudius Beresford, Banker, MP, and Controversial Figure in 1798 Rebellion

John Claudius Beresford, banker, Member of Parliament, and a notoriously controversial figure during the 1798 Rebellion, is born in Dublin in 1766. A staunch Protestant loyalist, Beresford gained infamy for his brutal methods of interrogation, particularly the alleged flogging of United Irish suspects at his riding school on Marlborough Street, Dublin. His harsh tactics inspired the sardonic slogan: “Mangling Done Here Gratis by Beresford & Co.”

Despite his political prominence, Beresford’s legacy is deeply polarizing — remembered both for his financial acumen and his ruthless role in suppressing the rebellion.