The Irish Soldiers of Mexico
MR Magazine has a feature today by Michael Hogan on the Irish immigrants who became the San Patricios - those who fought on the Mexican side in the United States-Mexico War of 1846-1848.
Whenever you read about these Irish you are told that it is one of the least known stories about the Irish who immigrated to America in the 19th century. Actually the story of Tadgh and Síle from Laois with the Koala farm in Ohio is much lesser known, and deservedly so.
In almost every Mexican account of the war, the San Patricios are considered heroes who fought for the noble ideals of religion and a just cause against a protestant invader of a peaceful nation. In U.S. histories however, they are often portrayed as turncoats, traitors, or malcontents, who joined the other side for land or money
It’s a story of famine, oppression, prejudice, religion, nationality, war, wise-cracking quips, death of course, and something called Celtic-Americanism, which I suspect is where this stuff called Celtic Rock started. A cheery tale that’d make you want to write a song.
See Also:
• Green, White, and Red Apples
• FAIQ #10: How Do You Find America?
• Feast or Famine: Emigration Assistance
• Irish Place Names and Illegals
• Timmy McVeigh & the Mexican Wall Climbers
Eolaí gan Fhéile:
That’s the coolest thing I’ve ever read. Damn, I learn something everyday about Irish people reading the blog. Peace out or I guess I should say Paz!