This extraordinary program follows the nation's first immigrant group on their journey to the American Dream. From war hero and President Andrew Jackson to union organizer Mother Jones, you'll meet the colorful Irish-Americans who fought and worked their way past oppression and into history. Dramatic re-creations, stirring readings, songs and interviews with leading historians offer insights into the events that have made the Irish an integral part of the American fabric. The Irish in America would be useful for classes on American History, American Culture, Irish History, Civics, and Industrialization. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Part I

For hundreds of years, the sons and daughters of Ireland dreamed of a land of opportunity in the mythical West. But for Irish settlers who finally made it to America, the realities of immigration were far from idyllic. Part I presents the experiences of the early Irish immigrants, including colonial sharpshooter Timothy Murphy, Civil War hero "Fighting" Tom Sweeney, and President Andrew Jackson. Historians shed new light on the tragedy the forever changed Irish and American history-the Great Potato Famine of the 1840s.

• aura
• calamitous
• cantankerous
• caricature
• codified
• demagogue
• eloquent
• excommunicate
• famine
• fathom
• hooligan
• impediments
• invincible
• marauding
• mythical
• ominous
• parlay
• penal codes
• perseverance
• prevail
• quell
• status quo
• uncouth
• vexing

1. Why did the Irish consider America to be the Promised Land?

2. There needs to be very strong impetus for people to leave their homes and family, most times never to return. What were some of the compelling reasons for Irish emigration?

3. Irish people in America faced scorn, ridicule and prejudice. What were some of the ways that these ideals were displayed?

4. Irish history is filled with conflict and misery. What was the role of religion in Irish history, and how did it add to the woes of Ireland?

5. How has English rule affected Irish history and Ireland today?

6. What was the role of the Irish in the American Revolution and in the settlement of this country?

7. Andrew Jackson's presidency is credited with the democratization of America. How did Andrew Jackson help to make America a more democratic country?

8. Irish Catholics in America faced tremendous opposition. Why was there such strong anti-Catholicism in the US in the 19th century?

9. The great railroads of the 19th century joined the east and west coasts of the United States. What was the role of the Irish in the building of these railroads? How did the railroads become a means of Irish mobility in American society?

10. How did the Great Potato Famine occur? What was the role of the famine in Irish history and in Irish migration?

1. Imagine that you are an Irish immigrant in 18th century America. Write a letter home to your family and friends describing your new life and your new country.

2. Research your own family history. When did your family come to America? Why and how did they come? What were their experiences? How did they become part of the American landscape?

3. Imagine that you are a passenger on a ship bound for America in the 18th or 19th century. Create a diary or journal of your crossing. In this diary or journal, record your thoughts and feelings, as well as your experiences.

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