ABSTRACT
The Golden Jubilee proved to be an occasion that evoked mixed feelings, for it offered citizens not only the chance to reflect upon the achievements of politicians since independence, but also to ponder their shortcomings. The Golden Jubilee also proved to be a poignant occasion for the stalwarts of the political establishment, who wished to place the memory of 1916 within a broader context that not only celebrated patriotic notions of freedom and sacrifice, but also bolstered their own personal reputations. The Golden Jubilee conveniently fell during the midst of Eamon de Valera's campaign for reelection as President. Press advertisements issued by Fianna Fáil extolled his virtues, including one containing a quotation by the Taoiseach, which proclaimed that the President's reelection would 'be an affirmation by the people that the aims of our country which have directed him throughout his life remain constant, and that patriotism is as relevant in the Ireland of 1966 as it was in 1916'.
