The Irish in the Civil War: The Beginnings

Commemorating the Civil War Sesquicentennial

This unique lecture details the involvement of the Irish in the U.S. Civil War from the years leading up to Secession through to Reconstruction.

The 60 minute lecture covers a brief history of Ireland, immigration, 1st wave – 17th Century Orange / 2nd wave – 18th Century Green, social & political climate, the cause, the split, secession, attack on Ft. Sumter, war begins, The Union Irish (Connecticut to Wisconsin)/The Confederate Irish (Alabama to Virginia) and “Fagh and Bealach” - colors, numbers, uniforms, flags, language, song, and battles.

Presenter, professor, poet, actor, dancer & performer are just a few of the words to describe Micheal O’Maille, an infectiously delightful native Irish speaker, born and raised in Connemara, County Galway.

The series is presented through the Claddagh na nGael (Irish Shore) Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (loosely in English- a Gathering of Irish Musicians), an international organization of traditional Irish musicians.