The Irish Sweepstakes was one of the largest lotteries ever promoted internationally. It was authorized by the Irish government in 1930 to benefit Irish hospitals. But during its 57 years of existence, the Irish Sweeps was really one of Ireland's greatest scandals.
Of the millions that poured in, it has been estimated that less than one tenth went to hospitals. The remainder turned rich men, like businessman Joe McGrath who owned Waterford Crystal, into even richer men, while supporting the terrorist activities of the
IRA.
