The Irishmen who fought in General Washingtons army. The Scots-Irish immigrants of the 18th century played a key role in the development of the country. There were the ones who cleared the forest, built communities on the frontiers and made lives for themselves in a pioneering fashion. When the American Revolution broke out, both Scots-Irish and Irish Catholics could be found in every contingent of Washingtons army. According to James OBoyles Life of George Washington, one of the most daring group of soldiers during the Revolutionary War was led by two Irishmen named Francis Marion and Andrew Pickens. These same men, most of whom were Irish, later became the pioneers that would venture outside Americas colonies and head west. The Scots-Irish from Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania were particularly prominent among the ranks of American soldiers who took on, and ultimately prevailed against, the British. They grew to love the country they had left the north of Ireland for, and it was an affection that would see them bear arms in a bid to gain independence. Their efforts did not go unnoticed either. When things werent looking great for General Washington, he came out with a gem of a quote that showed the pride and trust he had in these sturdy men. “If defeated everywhere else, I will make my stand for liberty, among the Scots-Irish in my native Virginia.” But defeat was not something they had to worry about, and Washington would lead his Army to victory and becomes the countrys first President. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Posted on: Wed, 24 Sep 2014 07:51:04 +0000
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