Late 1960s-Early 1970s: Although Gaelic is technically the official language of the Republic of Ireland, it is hardly used, and faces the possibility of dying out entirely, being displaced by English language and culture. This is true for other aspects of Irish culture and mythology.

Today: Irish culture, including the myths and legends of the ancient Celtic peoples, comprise a major industry worldwide. Vendors sell everything from Celtic crosses to traditional Irish folk music, and Irish movies like The Secret of Roan Inish (1995) and Dancing at Lughnasa (1998) are two of the many recent films that explore Irish legends and culture.

Late 1960s-Early 1970s: The Troubles, the most recent wave of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland, begin, and many people— Protestants, Catholics, paramilitary groups on each side, British military, and British citizens— die in a sustained campaign of violence. Bloody Sunday, the killing of thirteen...