The onset of the third millennium has stimulated worldwide interest in all theories connected with the end of time, and resulted in a wave of apocalyptic speculation. Here the history of millenarian ideas in the north-east of Ireland is traced. The events of 1641 and 1798, as well as more recent periods of disturbance, have all been interpreted as signs of the imminence of the last days. On each occasion biblical analysis and popular fears have merged in a reading of contemporary struggles as part of a more universal confrontation between good and evil. Millenarian ideas have proved powerful enough to inspire and sustain the vulnerable, and sufficiently adaptable to survive repeated miscalculations and the bad press of violent extremists.