America250- The Irish in Illinois

On 4 July 2026, the United States of America will mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American Declaration of Independence.

Ireland is proud to join the US in marking this major historic anniversary and to highlight the remarkable Irish contribution, not only to the foundation of the US, but also to its political, economic and social development over the past 250 years.

The Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago welcomes you to join us for a lecture given by Professor Sean Farrell of Northern Illinois University.

Professor Farrell is co-author of the book, 'The Irish in Illinois,' which enumerates the countless ways Irish men and women have shaped the history and culture of the state. They fought in the French and Indian War, the American Revolution, the Civil War, and two world wars; built the state’s infrastructure and worked in its factories; taught Illinois children and served the poor. Irish political leaders helped to draw up the state’s first constitution, served in city, county, and state offices, and created a machine that dominated twentieth-century politics in Chicago and the state.

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Host or Publisher Consulate General of Ireland, Chicago