Where were you in 1971?
If you’re old enough to remember the early Seventies (or you just like learning about this pivotal era), you may enjoy reading about the state of the Emerald Isle in 1971.
For many, the Irish documentary television programme, Reeling In The Years, provided an amusing and informative look at Ireland from the years 1962 to 2009.
A Blast From The Past…
One of the most entertaining episodes of this television series featured lots of fascinating information about the way Ireland was at the beginning of this unique, progressive, and decidedly fashion-challenged decade…
Inspired by Reeling In The Years, we’d like to take you back to the era of Elton John’s Your Song, the James Bond film, Diamonds Are Forever, and T. Rex’s sexy glam rock tune, Get It On.
During the Reeling In The Years series, viewers marveled at the sweeping changes in Irish culture, fads, music, politics, and sport, and they likely reminisced about their own lives during certain years.
Now, you can do the same! Let’s take a trip back to the Ireland of 1971…
How Wonderful Life Is While You’re In The World…
Was it a more idealistic and romantic time?
Popular songs of Ireland in 1971, such as Elton John’s poignant and sincere Your Song, seem to show the softer side of this era.
However, there were actually severe political and ideological tensions in Ireland during this year, as evidenced by violence and protests triggered by the Troubles.
Political Troubles Reach A Flashpoint
During 1971, a group of British soldiers were hurt during a riot in County Derry; during this event, two Irish citizens who participated in the riot were shot and killed by British military forces…
Another terrible tragedy occurred in early September, when a teen-aged girl became the innocent victim of deadly crossfire between the Irish Republican Army and British militia.
Still more appalling violence reared its head in late October, when two Irish women who drove past a checkpoint without stopping were shot dead by British forces.
In October, the Post Office Tower in London became a target for IRA aggression – a bomb that was planted on the 33rd floor of that location was detonated by the Irish reactionary group; no one was injured, but it signaled a dangerous escalation in animosity…
Peace and Love…
The violence and terror of the Troubles were contrasted by a spirit of peace and love, as a group of hippies put down roots at a new commune in Dorinish, Clew Bay, Ireland; this County Mayo enclave was actually purchased by John Lennon in the late sixties, and it soon became known as “Beatle Island”.
Lennon’s friend, Sid Rawle, was encouraged to set up a commune on the island…one which members believed heralded the birth of a new and more peaceful society…however, fate intervened when a fire wiped out the commune’s stored goods and led to the dissolution of this idealistic gathering…
Check the Reeling In The Years clip above (around 3:30) to learn more…
Local Color…
The Irish, confronted by danger and political unrest, kept their spirits up by participating in an exciting Eurovision song contest, which marked the first live Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTE network) color TV show broadcast from the Emerald Isle…
Irish citizens may have also chosen to drown their sorrows at the myriad country pubs of rural Ireland; a record number of these pubs popped up during this time period…one for every 250 rural Irishmen and women!
Other musical hits from this year included Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel, and My Sweet Lord by George Harrison. Irish fashions included racy hot pants and mini-skirts for the girls, and mid-calf length bell-bottoms (seriously!) and heavy work boots for the guys.
Hairstyles ranged from hippie center-parts (remnants of the Sixties) to glam-rock shags.
Enjoy The Spirit Of Ireland With Traditional Jewelry
The spirit of Ireland is alive in its culture and people…if you are proud of your own Irish ancestry, why not celebrate it with a silver Claddagh ‘Love Loyalty Friendship’ Ring?
Crafted by hand right in the Emerald Isle, this singular piece offers stunning workmanship and authenticity at a very affordable price.
Inside of each ring, the words, “Love Loyalty Friendship” are beautifully engraved, adding meaning to the design.
This traditional Gaelic token of affection has always been a symbol of loyalty and affection, so it’s truly a perfect gift for a special lady – or a well-deserved treat for yourself.