America is often referred to as a cultural “melting pot,” welcoming all types of people from around the world, all hoping for the same freedom and opportunity. The history of our country begins with immigrants, all with unique cultures and traditions. The diversity which exists in America makes the country unique but also is the source of many problems. Irish Americans are just one of many cultural groups which have contributed to the American culture. The factual story of how this group came to be includes the trials and tribulations of many immigrants but also the triumphs and successes of the group as a whole.
Immigration to America seemed the only way to survive for Irish populations who were both fleeing the poor conditions of Ireland …show more content…
Irish Americans faced severe discrimination and prejudice when assimilating to the American culture. From major religious conflict during the previous century, the 1900s brought new cultural discrimination, primarily within the work force during the industrial revolution. “No Irish Need Apply” is a common example of prejudice in which companies and businesses directly excluded Irish Americans completely (Contributions to the United States). Also, anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic predispositions throughout the existing population helped form groups such as the political party known as the “Know Nothings” which believed in the exclusion of outside cultural groups, including the Irish Americans, within political and economic practices (Irish Immigration). These existing conflicts were resolved through organizations which emerged to counteract discriminatory attitudes and promote Irish culture as well as providing them with equal opportunities. The Irish Immigrations Reform Movement is one example which developed in the 1980s to fight for change in the immigration laws and to help Irish Immigrants gain citizenship in America (Contributions to the United States). Enduring such oppression was a major part of assimilation for this cultural …show more content…
Through their dedication to organized labor, the Irish played a key role in infrastructure in America during the 19th century. During the 20th century, however, they receive credit for establishing major labor organizations as Irish Americans fought for workers’ rights such as increased wages and safer working conditions (Contributions to the United States). The Irish also greatly contributed to the American culture. Throughout generations, many have used their “way with words” to become political and religious leaders and succeed in areas such as entertainment, sports, and journalism (Irish Immigration). Many famous figures and their works, including films, literature, and dance, have also emerged from this cultural group. Making contributions to this country is one way the Irish have assimilated and left their unique mark in
Immigration to America seemed the only way to survive for Irish populations who were both fleeing the poor conditions of Ireland …show more content…
Irish Americans faced severe discrimination and prejudice when assimilating to the American culture. From major religious conflict during the previous century, the 1900s brought new cultural discrimination, primarily within the work force during the industrial revolution. “No Irish Need Apply” is a common example of prejudice in which companies and businesses directly excluded Irish Americans completely (Contributions to the United States). Also, anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic predispositions throughout the existing population helped form groups such as the political party known as the “Know Nothings” which believed in the exclusion of outside cultural groups, including the Irish Americans, within political and economic practices (Irish Immigration). These existing conflicts were resolved through organizations which emerged to counteract discriminatory attitudes and promote Irish culture as well as providing them with equal opportunities. The Irish Immigrations Reform Movement is one example which developed in the 1980s to fight for change in the immigration laws and to help Irish Immigrants gain citizenship in America (Contributions to the United States). Enduring such oppression was a major part of assimilation for this cultural …show more content…
Through their dedication to organized labor, the Irish played a key role in infrastructure in America during the 19th century. During the 20th century, however, they receive credit for establishing major labor organizations as Irish Americans fought for workers’ rights such as increased wages and safer working conditions (Contributions to the United States). The Irish also greatly contributed to the American culture. Throughout generations, many have used their “way with words” to become political and religious leaders and succeed in areas such as entertainment, sports, and journalism (Irish Immigration). Many famous figures and their works, including films, literature, and dance, have also emerged from this cultural group. Making contributions to this country is one way the Irish have assimilated and left their unique mark in