March is Irish-American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the many accomplishments and contributions those of Irish heritage have made to build our nation. Statistics show that nearly one in 10 Americans are of Irish heritage, with 1.9 million residing in Texas.
Historians note that Irish Americans started coming to what is now the United States in the early 17th century, the descendent of one of whom contributed to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Increasing numbers of Irish people came to the new nation, with an estimated 4.5 million arriving between 1820 to 1930. A great many came during the Great Irish Famine of the 19th century, seeking a better life than the one of abject poverty and disease they left behind in Ireland.
Theirs has not been an easy immigration to our nation, with Irish immigrants often challenged by extreme poverty and prejudice. Yet the immigrants persevered, and buoyed by indomitable spirit and ingenuity, they helped build and strengthen our nation. From laborers to artists, politicians to performers, each and every Irish-American of past and present is to be honored not only in March, but for all times.
