Irish in United States

Introduction / History

The Irish people have contributed significantly to European and world history, especially through preserving literacy and maintaining a Christian witness in Western Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire.

Ireland increasingly came under English rule from the Middle Ages onwards. The whole island was politically united with Britain in 1801. During a series of conflicts in the early 1920s, Ireland was partitioned (between north and south) and the territory which now forms the Republic of Ireland gained self-government. Northern Ireland, which continues to form part of the United Kingdom, experienced an intense and prolonged 30-year conflict – known as the Troubles in the late 20th Century, followed by a successful peace process and the formation of a cross-community government.

There has been an Irish diaspora, especially during the 1840s-1850s potato famine. The Irish came to the US in droves. They worked in eastern urban centers like New York and Boston. Others worked on the railroads alongside Chinese employees. Both ethnic groups played a major role in linking the US coast to coast. However, the Irish were despised for their lack of education and their Roman Catholic ways until they were culturally assimilated a couple of decades later.

The Irish economy has improved in recent years making it unnecessary for many to leave the country. The Irish diaspora is far less prominent in the 21st century.

What Are Their Lives Like?

English is the everyday language for most Irish people. Their ancient Gaelic language is almost forgotten among the Irish diaspora, though it is popular in certain musical genres.

Almost all Irish in the US have been there for generations, so they are completely assimilated in American society. American President John F. Kennedy had four grandparents from Ireland. Irish-Americans take on any kind of job in the 21st century.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The majority of Irish people describe their religious identity as Roman Catholic. Due to the rapid rise of secularism, many have only a nominal faith. As the Irish have become assimilated into American culture, many are now Protestant or Evangelical.

What Are Their Needs?

Pray for spiritual revival to bless Ireland like it has many times in the past.

Pray that nominal and secular Catholics and Protestants will fully give their lives to Jesus Christ.

Pray for the Irish diaspora to be blessed spiritually and physically by the power and goodness of God.

Pray for the Irish to once again send missionaries to take Christ to the nations.

Text Source:   Joshua Project