Season 2 · Episode 1

Reeling in the Years: 1990

Brian Lenihan’s presidential campaign falters after a taped conversation is leaked, leading Charles Haughey to sack him to maintain power. On November 9, 1990, Mary Robinson is elected President. Brian Keenan is freed after 1,597 days as a hostage in Beirut. Cardinal Tomas O'Fiaich dies, and Bishop Cahal Daly becomes Primate of All Ireland. Germany reunifies after 45 years, and Nelson Mandela is freed after 26 years in prison. The Channel Tunnel connects France and Britain, and Ireland prepares for its first-ever World Cup. Ireland’s team advances to the quarter-finals but loses to Italy. On August 2, 1990, Iraq invades Kuwait, leading to international tensions. The IRA uses 'proxy bombs', killing civilians and soldiers. Cork’s hurlers and footballers win All-Ireland titles. Margaret Thatcher resigns as Prime Minister on November 28, 1990.