The rise and fall of the biggest lottery in the world
The Irish Hospital Sweepstakes, once the world's biggest lottery, ran for over 50 years and collected millions for Irish hospitals but was marred by scandals and corruption. The sweepstakes contributed over £130 million to the hospitals' building fund but also made its organizers and their families wealthy.
The Irish Hospital Sweepstakes was a global lottery phenomenon that operated for over 50 years. It was based on the outcome of horse races in Ireland and the UK, with enormous prizes on offer. The sweepstakes was created by three men: Richard Duggan, Spencer Freeman, and Joseph McGrath, who formed the Irish Hospital's Trust (1940) Limited. The organization collected millions for Irish hospitals, contributing over £130 million to their building fund. However, it was also marked by corruption and mistreatment of workers. The sweepstakes' success eventually waned due to scandals and revelations about its operations.
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