Born in 1984

Ireland was in economic crisis — the national debt was 100% of GDP, unemployment was over 17%, and tens of thousands of young people were emigrating every year. Yet within this gloom, cultural pride was fierce. U2's The Unforgettable Fire was released and they were becoming global stars.

Riverdance was still years away, but Irish music and culture was being heard worldwide. The country's spirit was more robust than its economy.