The History of Irish Coming to America
The Irish are the second-largest group of people to immigrate to the United States. Devastating conditions at home motivated millions of Irish men and women to risk life and limb and come to America.
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Colonial America
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During the late 18th century, thousands of Irish immigrated to America, the majority of whom were tradespeople, artisans, teachers and professionals. They assimilated relatively easy and sent word back home of their success.
English Rule
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During the 18th and 19th centuries, much of Ireland was controlled by English landowners. The Irish, who were predominantly poor farm laborers, received few wages. Conditions were bleak, and many viewed America as their means of escape.
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Early 19th Century
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As word spread of the Irish successes in America, more Irish began immigrating. Many of these men and women were illiterate and took jobs as laborers. Major projects involving Irish labor included the Erie Canal, assembling the Statue of Liberty and the eastern section of the transcontinental railroad.
The Great Potato Famine
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In 1845, a fungus began decimating Irish potato crops, which were the main source of sustenance for millions of poor Irishmen and women. Millions of Irish immigrated to America as a result of the Great Potato Famine.
America
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It is estimated that nearly 3 million Irish immigrated to America between 1845 and 1900. Though many Americans were themselves immigrants, they resented the Irish and treated them badly. It wasn't unusual to see signs that said "No Irish Need Apply." Some Irish also resented blacks and didn't support abolition, viewing blacks as competition for work.
Getting a Foothold
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The Irish learned to band together and began to build Irish neighborhoods in major cities such as New York and Boston. After the Civil War, the Irish began getting involved in politics. Gradually, more Americans began to accept the Irish.
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