Irish American Heritage Month is celebrated annually in the United States during the month of March. It is a time to honor and celebrate the contributions and achievements of Irish Americans to the country. The month of March was chosen for this celebration because it coincides with St. Patrick's Day, which is celebrated on March 17th, the traditional death date of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
The origins of Irish American Heritage Month date back to the early 20th century when Irish immigrants faced significant discrimination and prejudice in the United States. In 1911, the Irish American activist and scholar Dr. Thomas J. Shahan proposed the idea of a day to honor the contributions of Irish Americans to the country. However, it wasn't until 1991 that Irish American Heritage Month was officially recognized by the U.S. Congress.
The roots of Irish American Heritage Month can be traced back to the 18th century when Irish soldiers fighting in the American Revolutionary War gained recognition for their bravery and contributions to the cause of American independence. Over time, Irish immigrants became an integral part of American society, contributing significantly to the country's culture, economy, politics, and more.
In 1991, Congress passed a resolution declaring March as Irish American Heritage Month, and it was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. Since then, it has been celebrated annually with various events, parades, festivals, and cultural activities across the United States, highlighting the rich history and heritage of Irish Americans.
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