1972

In Ireland, after the government agrees to join the European Economic Community, a referendum campaign ensues. Labour and left-wing groups oppose, but Fianna Fail and Fine Gael support, leading to a 'Yes' vote by a large margin. In the U.S., George McGovern challenges Nixon for the presidency, while the Watergate break-in gains little attention. Unemployment hits the West of Ireland, causing many to seek work abroad, dividing families. Bloody Sunday occurs in Derry, where British soldiers kill 13 civil rights marchers, provoking outrage. The IRA carries out bombings in Belfast, and Muhammad Ali fights in Dublin. The 1972 Olympics are marked by tragedy as Palestinian militants kill 11 Israeli athletes in Munich. As U.S. troops withdraw from Vietnam, Nixon visits China, and Ireland makes constitutional changes. Northern Ireland is placed under direct rule, and the Provisional IRA intensifies violence, including the bombing campaign on 'Bloody Friday.'