*1858. Central India.
*1879-80. Afghanistan.
1900. South Africa.
Uniform.—Scarlet (1693-1784); Blue (1784-1802); Light Blue or Cavalry Grey (1802-22); Dark Blue (from 1822). Facings, Yellow (1693-1777); Blue (1777-84); Scarlet (1784-1822); Blue (from 1822). Helmet-plume, Red and White.
Regimental Badge.—"The Harp and Crown." Motto: "Pristinæ virtutis memores."
Nickname.—"The Cross Belts" (1768), from its privilege of wearing the sword-belt over the left shoulder, in recognition of services at Saragossa, where it took the belts of the Spanish Cavalry; of this fact, however, there is no official record; also "The Georges" (from its Colonel's name, 1740-51); also "The Dirty Eighth."
Notes.—Composed originally of loyal Protestants who had fought at the Boyne. It gained much distinction in Spain and Flanders; and received its title, crest, and motto in 1777 as special marks of Royal favour. It shared largely in the glory of Leswarree and other Indian actions—in short, few regiments can boast a more honourable record than "The Royal Irish."
Bibliography.—Historical Record of the 8th, or King's Royal Irish Regiment of Hussars. 1693-1843. Illustrated. [London: Parker. 1844.]
Historical Record of the 8th King's Royal Irish Hussars. To 1803. By John Francis Smet, M.D., late Surgeon, 8th Hussars. [London: Mitchell. 1874.]