The Fighting Irish

Terese Long

Matthew Walker

American Ethnic History

December 15, 2014

The Irish Brigade’s Significance to the Union Army during the Civil War

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How the Fighting 69th Epitomizes the American Spirit

The 69th Irish regiment of New York’s militia has a deeply rooted history in both American immigration and military history. A militia composed entirely of Irish immigrants who fought bravely for the Union Army during the Civil War, and who are still a prominent military faction today. The 69th regiment was instrumental in the overall success of the Union army and also instrumental in the overall success of changing the majority opinion regarding the Irish immigrants in America. Their creation during a time shortly after a mass immigration to America from Ireland during the great potato famine (1845-1853) was partly for comradery while dealing with anti-Irish and anti-Catholic sentiment from various individuals including the Know-Nothing group. Not only were the sentiments anti-Irish in America, they were in Ireland too where the Irish were subject to British rule as part of the British Empire. Despite the anti-Irish feelings from some in America however, the overall freedom provided by the American government paved the way for unification of the Irish immigrants. From these humble beginnings, the 69th have become synonymous with fighting, their moniker becoming “the fighting Irish”. Known for charging down the field gallantly shouting, “Faugh an Beallach” meaning, “Clear the Way”. The “fighting” 69th regiment is one of the best-known brigade associations to date for various acts of bravery, valor, and precision under pressure, promptness, sacrifice, and long continuous service within the United States military. These traits coupled with the adversities they had to overcome racially, religiously, and politically, together form a truly American spirit. For all Americans are individuals who beat the odds, fight for what is right and do not take no for an...