COMMENTARY: The Irish made many contributions to America
By Bill Halpin IRISH American Heritage Month is heralded by presidential and congressional proclamations that celebrate the achievements and contributions of Irish immigrants and their descendants to the fabric of America. IAHM is also featured on national websites at the Library of Congress, the National Archives and the Smithsonian Institution. Today 39 million Americans claim Irish heritage! And there is plenty of reason to celebrate the feast and the month of St. Patrick. In the 1400s, the Irish were rebelling against English rule. The English wanted a loyal population, so the...