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 II

The Irish were the first true immigrants in America: the first to arrive en masse, the first to settle in slums, the first to feel the barbs of prejudice. But after their costly service in the Civil War, the Irish also became the first group to live the American Dream. Part II recalls the tremendous sacrifices of Irish soldiers in the Civil War, as well as the prosperity that followed in the Gilded Age. The 19th century's most colorful figures-including union organizer Mother Jones, the gallant General Patrick Cleburne, tycoon Diamond Jim Brady, and heavyweight champion boxer John L. Sullivan-are brought vividly to life.

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• embellish
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• tainted

1. The experiences of immigration for any ethnic group are different for different people. Discuss how the immigration experiences of Irish men and Irish women differed.

2. Gold was discovered in California in 1848. How did the Gold Rush help facilitate western migration for Irish immigrants?

3. Irish soldiers participated in the Civil War, in both the Union and the Confederate armies. What were some of the contributions Irish soldiers made in the war?

4. Although many Irish immigrants and Irish-Americans fought for the Union Army in the Civil War, many were afraid of African American emancipation. Why did some Irish fear the liberation of slaves?

5. By the late 19th century, Irish-Americans were political powers in many urban areas. How did the Irish evolve from starving immigrants to political bosses?

6. What does a political machine mean? How did these machines function? How did they benefit Irish immigrants and Irish Americans?

7. Why did Irish-Americans have such strong ties to Ireland, a land they had never seen?

8. Mother Jones is one of the most famous Irishwomen in America. What was her contribution to labor rights in the United States?

9. How did Irish culture become part of American culture? What customs, mores, celebrations, etc. are of Irish origin?

1. Create a blueprint, floor plan, or model of a typical tenement. Use your model to illustrate the living conditions of many immigrants in late 19th century/early 20th century urban areas.

2. On a world map, trace the migration patterns of the Irish people.

3. Write an essay on what historians term the push and pull of migration. The push is what makes a person leave their homeland, and the pull is what attracts a person to their new homes in other countries.

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