The Irish Guards was raised by order of Queen Victoria in April 1900 in response to acts of gallantry by Irish units during the Boer War (1899-1902). The regiment was presented with its first Colours in May 1902 by King Edward VII.

The first recruits were men of Irish descent from existing regiments of the British Army. It went on to recruit from across Britain and Ireland. This is the current number two company badge.