Civil War, Slavery & Irish America

Join historians Fin Dwyer and Damian Shiels as they explore the road to Civil War in the United States. Irish emigrants fought in huge numbers, but their motives were complex. Many assume that the Irish, who had endured oppression at home, would identify with African Americans struggling for emancipation from slavery. This was not always the case. Fin and Damian delve into how Irish Americans, many of whom fought for the Union against the Confederacy, often held deeply racist views and were not always opposed to slavery.

Through engaging storytelling, they investigate the origins of these attitudes, questioning whether they arose from their own poverty or were shaped by experiences in Ireland. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of the past that resonates with today's conversations on race and identity.

Teaser for Next Episode: In the next episode we will explore Irish connections to the pivotal settlement of Jamestown Virginia, one of the first English colonies in the Americas. Subscribe to the show https://linktr.ee/transatlanticpod.

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