The Irish in America

St. Patrick's Day is celebrated throughout the United States, but it has not always been so. Irish immigrants who arrived in the US in the 19th century were treated with contempt due to their cultural differences and were blamed for crime and economic problems. Using primary sources, including music, photographs, newspaper articles and cartoons, this informative and entertaining talk helps us understand how the Irish went from despised refugees to an acclaimed ethnic group that has made major contributions to every facet of American life.

About the speaker:

Dr. John F. Lyons was born in London, England, to Irish parents. He lives in Chicago and works as a Professor of History at Joliet Junior College, where he teaches classes in British and US history. He has appeared on podcasts and radio shows discussing many historical topics and is a noted public speaker who has spoken to audiences in the US and Europe. Joy and Fear: The Beatles, Chicago and the 1960s is his latest book.