Teilifís Éireann (later RTÉ) was set up and television brought in new ideas to the country (1961). In programmes like The Late Late Show and 7 Days many topics in Irish society were opened up for discussion and investigation. ‘The critical achievement of Irish television in the 1960s [was that it] forced us to look at ourselves new.’ (Tobin) When John F. Kennedy, President of the United States, came to Ireland in 1963, he
said: ‘You have modernised your economy, harnessed your rivers, diversified your industry,
liberalised your trade, electrified your farms, accelerated your rate of growth and improved the living standards of your people.’
Irish racehorse Arkle, winner of three consecutive Cheltenham Gold Cups from 1964 to 1966
Gay Byrne presenting The Late Late Show
President Kennedy’s visit to Ireland – meeting his relations in Wexford
Did You Know? 1966 was the 50th anniversary of the
1916 Rising. In advance of the celebration, a group of IRA men blew up the Nelson Monument in the centre of O’Connell Street, Dublin.
