Irish Immigration to America

Irish Immigration to America 

Irish immigration to the United States began early in the 17th century. Many of the immigrants worked as indentured servants or sought refuge from political and religious persecution. The largest wave of immigration occurred during the 19th century, particularly during and after the Great Famine (1845–1852). Over one million Irish persons fled starvation and poverty. Many Irish immigrants landed in major US port cities such as New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. 

The Irish arrived in America with little more than their faith and determination. They faced discrimination, poverty, and harsh living conditions. However, their resilience allowed them to persevere and establish themselves as an integral part of their new nation. Fortunately, the Irish Immigrants in America are fundamentally a success story. And Irish Americans have in many ways defined America as we know it today. Though a majority-Protestant country, America today has a strong Catholic tradition thanks in part to the influx of Irish in the 19th century. 

Ill will toward Irish immigrants because of their poor living conditions, and their willingness to work for low wages was often intensified by religious conflict. Centuries of tension between Protestants and Catholics found their way into United States cities and verbal attacks sometimes led to mob violence. 

Anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic sentiments in the 1840s produced groups such as the nativist American Party, which fought foreign influences and promoted "traditional American ideals." In the Questions for Admittance to the American Party (1854), inductees committed to "…elect to all offices of Honor, Profit, or Trust, no one but native born citizens of America, of this Country to the exclusion of all Foreigners, and to all Roman Catholics, whether they be of native or Foreign Birth, regardless of all party predilections whatever." 

Irish immigrants often entered the workforce at the bottom of the job ladder and took on menial and dangerous jobs that were often avoided by other workers. The Irish often suffered blatant or subtle job discrimination. Furthermore, some businesses took advantage of Irish immigrants' willingness to work at unskilled jobs for low pay. Employers were known to replace (or threaten to replace) uncooperative workers and those demanding higher wages with Irish American laborers 

As Irish immigrants moved inland from eastern cities, they found themselves in heated competition for jobs with local residents. At the turn of the century, Irish Americans were often antagonized by organizations such as the American Protective Association (APA) and the Ku Klux Klan. 

One of the most significant contributions of Irish immigrants was their role in building America’s infrastructure. Irish laborers were instrumental in constructing canals, railroads, and bridges that connected the country. 

Irish culture has had a profound impact on American life, from music & dance to literature & film. Elements of Irish tradition have become woven into the fabric of American identity. Irish Americans are found everywhere in this country. 

Today, over 30 million Americans claim Irish ancestry, making Irish Americans one of the largest ethnic groups in the country. While deeply integrated into American society, Irish Americans continue to celebrate their heritage through festivals, organizations, and cultural events. 

Patrick Conway, parishioner

Photo: Irish-Catholic 69th NY Volunteer Regiment attend church services at Fort Corcoran, 1861. Fort Corcoran was part of the defenses of Washington, DC during the Civil War. US Library of Congress