3 OF 41 
Sir John Betjeman
3 of 41 portraits of Sir John Betjeman
© Arnold Newman / Getty Images
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Sir John Betjeman
by Arnold Newman
bromide print, 1978
9 1/4 in. x 15 1/2 in. (235 mm x 394 mm)
Given by The Sunday Times, 1980
Primary Collection
NPG P150(6)
Sitterback to top
- Sir John Betjeman (1906-1984), Poet Laureate, writer and broadcaster. Sitter in 41 portraits.
Artistback to top
- Arnold Newman (1918-2006), Photographer. Artist or producer of 62 portraits, Sitter in 1 portrait.
Linked publicationsback to top
- Perry, George, The Great British: Photographs by Arnold Newman, 1979 (accompanying the exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery from 30 November 1979 - 11 May 1980), p. 73
- Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 54
Events of 1978back to top
Current affairs
The country is brought to a virtual standstill as workers in the private and public sector strike over the government's decision to restrict wage increases. As more workers joined the strikes rubbish piled up in the streets, petrol stations ran short, and storage space had to be hired for unburied coffins. The period became known as the 'winter of discontent'.Art and science
Louise Brown from Oldham in Greater Manchester becomes the world's first 'test-tube baby'. The 'in vitro' fertilisation procedure was a scientific breakthrough that has given thousands of infertile couples the opportunity to conceive.Iris Murdoch wins the Booker prize with her novel. The Sea, the Sea.
International
Karol Józef Wojtyla becomes Pope John Paul II. He was the only Polish Pope and the first non-Italian Pontiff since the 16th century. During his 26-year pontificate, John Paul was recognised for his efforts to reach out to other religions and his fight against poverty and oppression. He has also, however, been criticised for his conservative attitudes towards divorce, contraception, homosexual marriage and the ordination of women priests.Tell us more back to top
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