As mid-19th century America erupted in violence with the invasion of Mexico and the outbreak of the Civil War, Irish immigrants enthusiastically joined the fray in large numbers, on both sides, mainly seeking stable employment. In Southern cities Irish volunteers vigorously backed the Confederacy; in the North they were vastly over-represented in the US Army and Navy. They were often seen as disruptive in national affairs - Confederate General Patrick Cleburne called for the enlistment of slaves in exchange for their freedom, while in New York City Irish-led draft riots ensued when the Emancipation Proclamation made the war a liberating mission. History has honored the valor of many, such as the Irish Brigade at Gettysburg. This collection of essays examines the involvement of Irish men and women in American military life from 1840 to 1865.

About the Author
Arthur H. Mitchell is a distinguished professor of history at the Salkehatchie Campus of the University of South Carolina. He lives in Allendale, South Carolina, USA.

Reviews
"A welcome contribution to the scholarship on the Irish in the U.S., Mitchell's anthology expands knowledge of Irish involvement in the Civil and Mexican-American Wars and enriches the Irish American historical narrative in the process. Mitchell's engaging, approachable anthology of Irish soldierly and associated involvements addresses evident gaps in the Irish American field...recommended"-Choice
"well written and carefully documented"-Civil War News
"This book is a great source of information for those looking to understand Irish participation during these two major conflicts. The issues it explores are relevant to anyone looking to understand the involvement of Irish men and women in American conflicts from the late 1840s to the late 1860s."-H-Net Reviews.



Book Information
ISBN 9781476664804
Author Arthur H. Mitchell
Format Paperback
Page Count 272
Imprint McFarland & Co Inc
Publisher McFarland & Co Inc
Weight(grams) 360g