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Transatlantic: An Irish American History Podcast
We Share a History: But Are Irish Americans Really Irish?
Season 1, Ep. 7
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In this episode, Fin and Damian explore the intriguing question: Are Irish Americans truly Irish? This complex inquiry challenges the reasons behind the strong protectiveness many Irish people feel over Irish identity. Is this protectiveness legitimate, or does it create barriers to a broader understanding of what it means to be Irish?
We delve into the shared history of the Great Famine, a pivotal event that profoundly shaped both Ireland and the Irish diaspora, discussing its lasting impact on both sides of the Atlantic. Join us for an unusual episode, recorded face-to-face during Damian's recent flying visit to Ireland. This unique setup—since we normally record remotely—sparked a great conversation. We offer a few hot takes on the evolving nature of Irishness, the dual identity of Irish Americans, and what it truly means to belong to a culture that spans continents and generations.
What do you think? Let Fin and Damian know at your thoughts at transatlanticseries at gmail.com
There will be no show next week, but we will return on Nov 4th with the story of the famine emigrant who went to become known as 'the most dangerous woman in the United States'.
Subscribe to the show at https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod
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10. The Irish in New Orleans
56:07||Season 1, Ep. 10New Orleans is one of the most famous cities in the American South. World-renowned for Mardi Gras, the city has a unique history. Founded by the French, it was also an outpost of the Spanish, today, it is famous for its Creole and Cajun culture. However, the city also became home to tens of thousands of Irish emigrants in the 19th century. In this final episode of Season 1 (don't worry, we are already prepping Season 2), Damian and Fin are joined by Dr. David Gleeson, an expert on the Irish in the American South. David details the origins of New Orleans, when the Irish first arrived, how they shaped the city, and how they were influenced by its unique culture.We are currently preparing Season 2, which is coming in early 2025. In the meantime, we are recording a special bonus Christmas episode where we answer your questions and share some fascinating stories we didn't get to include in Season 1. If you have any questions, get in touch at transatlanticseries@gmail.com.Check out David's books:The Irish in the American South 1815-1877 LinkThe Green and the Gray: The Irish in the Confederate States of America (Civil War America) LinkSound by Kate Dunlea9. Coffin Ships & Famine Emigrants: Surviving the American Journey
01:18:31||Season 1, Ep. 9Many Irish Americans trace their roots back to the Famine emigrants who escaped the death and disease that ravaged Ireland in the 1840s. In this episode, we delve into the harrowing journeys these emigrants faced aboard the infamous "Coffin Ships." Join us as we explore the stories of these resilient individuals, uncovering who they were and the compelling reasons behind their flight from Ireland. We also dissect the grim realities of their transatlantic voyage, encapsulated in the chilling term ‘Coffin Ships.’Pre-order Damian’s new book Green and Blue: Irish Americans in the Union Military, 1861–1865 at https://lsupress.org/9780807183700/green-and-blue/Sources mentioned in the episode. The Coffin Ship by Cian T. McMahon.Fin Dwyer: A Lethal Legacy: A History of Ireland in 18 Murders The Irish History Podcast: The Great Famine Series Irish Histord National Famine Museum, Strokestown Co. Roscommon8. Mother Jones: The Most Dangerous Woman in America?
01:14:00||Season 1, Ep. 8In this episode, Fin and Damian explore the life of one of the most renowned Irish American women in history: Mother Jones. Known as a fearless labour organiser at the turn of the 20th century, she played a pivotal role in the often violent struggles between workers and employers. Her very name instilled fear in the authorities, with one prosecutor famously calling her "the most dangerous woman in America."Mother Jones's backstory is equally fascinating. In this intriguing episode, Fin and Damian take you back to early 19th-century Cork, where she survived the Famine. They then follow her story after she emigrated to the US where she endured personal tragedy. Despite these challenges, she rose to become a leading figure in the American labour movement in the early 20th century. Remarkably active into her 70s and 80s, her fascinating story is summed up in her catchphrase: “Mourn the dead, and fight like hell for the living."Buckle up for one of the most incredible stories from Irish American history!Subscribe to Transatlantic https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpodGet in Touch with Fin and Damian Transatlanticseries (at) gmail.com
6. From Ireland to Jamestown, Virginia: The Bloody Blueprint For English Colonialism
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5. Civil War, Slavery & Irish America
55:14||Season 1, Ep. 5Join historians Fin Dwyer and Damian Shiels as they explore the road to Civil War in the United States. Irish emigrants fought in huge numbers, but their motives were complex. Many assume that the Irish, who had endured oppression at home, would identify with African Americans struggling for emancipation from slavery. This was not always the case. Fin and Damian delve into how Irish Americans, many of whom fought for the Union against the Confederacy, often held deeply racist views and were not always opposed to slavery. Through engaging storytelling, they investigate the origins of these attitudes, questioning whether they arose from their own poverty or were shaped by experiences in Ireland. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of the past that resonates with today's conversations on race and identity.Teaser for Next Episode: In the next episode we will explore Irish connections to the pivotal settlement of Jamestown Virginia, one of the first English colonies in the Americas. Subscribe to the show https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod.
4. Pioneers of Irish America: Irish Emigration before the Great Famine
01:07:56||Season 1, Ep. 4The stereotypical Irish emigrant is often seen as a famine exile from the west of Ireland. However, in the decades before the Great Hunger of the 1840s, over one million Irish people had already crossed the Atlantic. These early 19th-century emigrants, who laid the foundations of modern Irish American communities, differed significantly from the common stereotypes. In this episode, Fin and Damian delve into the stories of this forgotten generation, exploring their motivations, experiences, and lasting impact.Teaser for Next Episode: In the next episode, we will explore the Irish involvement in the violent tensions that led to the outbreak of the American Civil War. Subscribe to the show https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod
3. 1917: The American Invasion of Ireland
01:01:00||Season 1, Ep. 3In 1917, the USA entered the First World War. Some of the first Americans to arrive in Europe were stationed in Ireland. However, this did not go entirely to plan. While Irish American sailors based in Cork were excited to see the land of their forefathers for the first time, many in Ireland were less than enthused. The island was hurtling towards a revolution and the War of Independence. Irish republicans viewed the Americans as coming to aid Britain in what was becoming a deeply unpopular war. This led to clashes between Irish revolutionaries and US Navy personnel. Beyond these political tensions, relationships between Irish women and American sailors also caused resentment and tension.In this episode, Damian and Fin explore this forgotten story from World War I. We reveal the violence that erupted around the war and also look at the lives of Irish war brides—women who married sailors and emigrated to the USA, where life could be challenging and difficult.Episode 4 looks at the Forgotten Generations - The Irish who emigrated before the Great Hunger of the 1840s. Subscribe to Transatlantic here and get that episode when it drops.
2. The Irish Witch of Boston: The Prelude to Salem
01:00:39||Season 1, Ep. 2Ann Glover was a poor Irish woman who lived in late 17th century Boston. Although she is a largely forgotten figure, she played a significant role in the famous Salem witchcraft trials. In 1688, Ann was accused of being a witch. Her trial and execution would shape the harrowing events that played out in nearby Salem just a few years later.In this episode, Fin and Damian explore Ann's life, what we know about her, and why we should remember her story.Subscribe to Transatlantic - An Irish American History Podcast: https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod