The Connection Between Ireland and Thanksgiving in the USA

When we think of Thanksgiving, images of turkey dinners, family gatherings, and the Pilgrims’ feast with the Wampanoag spring to mind. But what if we told you that Ireland—yes, the Emerald Isle—has its own subtle yet meaningful ties to this quintessentially American holiday? From shared traditions of gratitude to the contributions of Irish immigrants, Ireland’s influence on Thanksgiving runs deeper than you might think.

1. Irish Contributions to Early Colonial Survival

The Pilgrims’ first years in the New World were marked by hardship. While the famous Mayflower voyage brought them to Plymouth in 1620, later ships like the Lyon helped sustain their colony. The Lyon brought much-needed provisions from Dublin, where Irish trade often played a supporting role in supplying food and goods. According to records from the Massachusetts Historical Society, one of the prominent leaders at Plymouth Colony had a wife whose father was a wealthy Dublin merchant. This Irish merchant played a vital role in the colony’s survival by chartering a ship, loading it with food, and sending it to Plymouth during a time of need.

Additionally, the agricultural techniques that sustained early settlers were inspired in part by European—and Irish—practices, including cultivating hardy crops like potatoes.

2. The Irish Famine and the Spirit of Thanksgiving

The Irish Potato Famine (1845–1852) was a devastating chapter in Ireland’s history, forcing millions to flee to America. These immigrants carried with them a deep sense of resilience, gratitude, and family unity—values at the heart of Thanksgiving.

Irish Americans who had endured incredible hardships found the holiday an opportunity to express thanks for new opportunities in their adopted homeland. This gratitude resonated across generations, cementing Thanksgiving as a meaningful occasion for Irish-American families.

3. Celtic Traditions of Gratitude

Long before the Pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving, the Celts celebrated harvest festivals like Samhain, marking the end of the agricultural year. These celebrations included feasting and gathering with loved ones—strikingly similar to the themes of Thanksgiving.

While Thanksgiving evolved in a different cultural context, the parallels to Irish harvest traditions show how universal the idea of gratitude truly is.

4. The Influence of Irish Immigrants in Shaping American Culture

By the mid-19th century, Irish immigrants made up a significant portion of the U.S. population. Their cultural impact can be seen in the food, music, and traditions woven into American life—including Thanksgiving.

For instance, dishes like mashed potatoes—a staple of Irish cuisine—are indispensable on many Thanksgiving tables. The Irish also brought their love of gathering with family and friends, a tradition that resonates perfectly with Thanksgiving celebrations.

      5.  An Irishwoman’s Role in Thanksgiving’s Establishment

While President Abraham Lincoln officially proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, it was the tireless efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale that made it happen. Hale, who had Irish ancestry, petitioned for decades to establish Thanksgiving as a unifying holiday for the nation.

Her work ensured that Thanksgiving became an enduring celebration, appreciated by Irish Americans and all other communities alike.

 Thanksgiving may be rooted in American history, but its spirit of gratitude and togetherness has universal appeal—and a unique connection to Ireland. From the resilience of Irish immigrants to shared cultural traditions, Ireland’s influence is worth celebrating.

This Thanksgiving, as you give thanks for family, friends, and good fortune, take a moment to raise a glass (perhaps of Irish whiskey!) to the shared histories that bring us all together. Sláinte!

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