Americans have a solid connection to Ireland, and we uncover the historical ties behind why Americans are obsessed with Ireland.
It’s no surprise that Americans are obsessed with Ireland; after all, it is not uncommon to see the tricolour flying proudly throughout the States, Irish sports teams forming in cities, and Irish pubs galore. So where has this obsession come from, and is it authentic?
Ireland has many things to love, including its rich culture and renowned hospitality. Still, it’s safe to say that Americans wholeheartedly love Ireland on a deeper level – for great reason.
This article will explore the connection between America and Ireland to understand where this fascination is rooted. So, let’s take a look.
- Americans have a solid connection to Ireland, and we uncover the historical ties behind why Americans are obsessed with Ireland.
- The Irish-American connection – a history of emigration
- A sense of patriotism – Irish culture thrives in the USA
- Why Americans are obsessed with Ireland – understanding the connection
The Irish-American connection – a history of emigration
We can all agree that Americans have a genuine, deep-rooted love for Ireland and everything it stands for. But why is this?
Well, it all goes back to the long-standing tradition of emigration between Ireland and the USA, which was prominent during the famine era, when millions of Irish fled to the States to escape poverty and death.
Escaping to the land of the free was the only means of survival for many, leading to over 4.5 million Irish emigrating to the USA between 1820 and 1930. It is evident today that the Irish diaspora in the USA is alive and well, with 31.5 million Americans claiming Irish descent.
When the Irish emigrated, they took their culture, customs, and lifestyle, including music, community spirit, and a hard-working ethic. Many parts of the USA became synonymous with the Irish, like Boston, New York, and Chicago, which welcomed the majority of Irish immigrants.
Since so many Americans are connected to Ireland ancestrally, it is safe to say that this has become ingrained in the American way of life, leading to a strong sense of patriotism.
A sense of patriotism – Irish culture thrives in the USA
If you want to see how much Irish culture thrives in the USA, just wait until St Patrick’s Day on 17 March each year, when rivers turn green, green beer flows, and everyone becomes Irish – even if they have no Irish heritage to claim.
This shows that the Irish have made a name for themselves in the States and that their culture is alive and well.
However, you do not need to wait until St Patrick’s Day to see this; you can see and hear elements of Irish culture throughout the country in the form of music, sports, cuisine, and even accents.
Irish music and folklore events and festivals can be found around the country, and this has exposed many Americans to the captivating culture that the Irish are so proud of.
With this exposure, many have been inspired to visit the Emerald Isle to get a taste of Ireland at the source, meet the locals, visit heritage sites, and, for some, even visit the birthplace of their ancestors.
Irish culture and traditions, shared through generations in the USA, have prompted Americans to seek out long-lost ancestors and get to know their heritage at the core, and this helps us understand the connection between nations.
Why Americans are obsessed with Ireland – understanding the connection
Americans who visit Ireland often say they love the peace, the warm welcome, the rugged landscapes, and the rich history.
In 2017 alone, over two million North Americans visited Ireland, many of whom were American. This number is consistently on the rise, which shows that Americans cannot get enough of the Emerald Isle.
The United States and Ireland have always had a solid friendship, with the USA being a great support to Ireland throughout the years, adding to this strong connection between the nations.
Both countries have connected not only on their common ancestral and economic ties but also their shared values and beliefs, enhancing the relationship between the nations, so it’s no wonder that Irish people love visiting the USA and vice versa.
It’s safe to say that whether or not they have an ancestral connection, Americans will always have a soft spot for Ireland, its culture, and its people, and this comes down to a special bond that has formed between the countries over the years.
Nowadays, many Americans are choosing to move to Ireland to enjoy the culture and lifestyle at its core. In contrast, many Irish ex-pats and students have chosen the USA as their base of choice for a variety of reasons.
It’s clear that Americans’ obsession with Ireland has stemmed from a history of emigration, but we have to admit that the Irish love America and its people just as much.
