America’s Irish Roots

Geraldine Byrne Nason, Ambassador of Ireland to the United States, sits down with White House Historical Association president Stewart McLaurin to discuss the depth of America’s Irish roots. The history between Ireland and the United States goes back as far as the founding of America and the Revolutionary War. Irish immigrants and their descendants helped build this country, including the Irish born James Hoban who emigrated to the U.S. and went on to design the White House. Millions of Americans claim their Irish heritage, including half of all U.S. presidents. So it's no surprise that the White House continues to mark the month of March with a number of St. Patrick’s Day traditions, from the gifting of shamrocks between a representative of Ireland’s leadership to the president, to dyeing the water green in the White House fountains. But the relationship between Ireland and the United States extends beyond these celebrations, with diplomacy and investment driving a longstanding friendship built on a spirit of independence. In the words of President Joe Biden, "the fabric of modern America is woven through with the green of the Emerald Isle.”