AP+2014+P3+Irish+immigration+to+America

**Historical:** Gabi Elizondo-Craig


====America is known for its large population of immigrants; one nation that largely contributed to the immigrant population was Ireland. Throughout time the reasons for Irish immigration shifted from religion to economic turmoil. In the 19th century, the famous Potato blight occurred, resulting in an estimated 4.5 million Irish immigrants between 1820 and 1890 (“Irish-Catholic”). At the time, America was seen as a land of opportunity and an escape for those persecuted or struggling to find food and employment. Those who came reported, “[America] as a land of abundance and urged others to follow them through the ‘Golden Door’”("Irish Immigrants"). ====

"Irish-Catholic Immigration - Immigration...- Classroom Presentation | Teacher Resources - Library of Congress." Irish - Irish-Catholic Immigration - Immigration...- Classroom Presentation | Teacher Resources - Library of Congress. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Jan. 2014.

"Irish Immigrants in America during the 19th Century." Irish Immigrants in America during the 19th Century. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Jan. 2014.

==== In the mid 19th century the people of Ireland fled their mother country to escape disease, poverty, and starvation to seek new opportunities in America. Their migration from their rich European homeland to new world America was a vast culture shock to say the least. In America, “All major cities had their ‘Irish Town’ or ‘Shanty Town’ where the Irish clung together. Our immigrant ancestors were not wanted in America. Ads for employment often followed by ‘NO IRISH NEED APPLY’” (Kinsella). While many of the Irish immigrants were segregated and maltreated at first they later on did succeed. In doing so, they had a massive impact on the shaping of American culture to this day. “I n turn these immigrants contributed to the ‘American culture’ in many ways. They became political and religious leaders. They used their drive and charm to achieve special success in journalism, entertainment and sports” (Library of Congress). Although it was not an easy transition, the Irish were able to rise to the challenge and shape America into what it is today. ====

===="Irish - Contributions to American Culture" Library of Congress. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 Jan. 2014. ====

===="Irish Immigrants in America during the 19th Century." Kinsella. N.p., n.d. Web. 06 Jan. 2014. ====

Audience- Lauren

With the rising opportunities that immigrants seem to have been offered in the early 1800’s, the appeal of moving to America was a widespread desire for the Irish. After the many problems imposed on those who lived within this region, the number of people who ultimately made the trip from Ireland to America was drastic; “Suddenly, in the mid-1840s, the size and nature of Irish immigration changed drastically” (Irish Immigration). The potato famine, as well as the Napoleonic war caused many people in Ireland to obtain a great sense of discretion in the well being and quality of life of themselves as individuals. America, as a country, seemed to be a beacon of hope for those wishing to obtain opportunities that were not presented to them within their country.

"Irish American Journey: Irish Immigration to America: How America Became Irish." Irish American Journey: Irish Immigration to America: How America Became Irish. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Jan. 2014.

"Irish Immigration." Irish Immigration. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Jan. 2014.