For centuries unsung Irish American heroes have stepped up to make America what it is today. They have come from all walks of life – from fur traders and explorers like Thomas Fitzpatrick, to signers of the Declaration of Independence like Charles Carrol of Carrolton, to great men and women of literature and the arts. In every realm of American life, Irish-American religious leaders, social justice advocates, labor leaders, presidents and generals have made their mark.
But dig a little deeper and you find the unsung hero. We hope to take a fresh new look at some of these unsung Irish Americans. And we encourage you to nominate a man or woman who you believe has made a difference. Please send your suggestions to info@irishamerica250.org.
Revolutionary hero honored in hometown
Cork has honored Stephen Moylan with a historic plaque on Blarney Street
Margaret Corbin: First woman to earn an American military pension
Margaret Cochran’s strong personality earned her the nickname “Captain Molly” – and a U.S. military pension.
John Barry: Wexford man and “Father of the American Navy”
“The Father of the American Navy” came from County Wexford – and is remembered as one of the most courageous leaders of the American Revolution.
John Boyle O’Reilly: Journalist, Writer, and Civil Rights Activist
John Boyle O’Reilly was a remarkable Irish Bostonian – a writer and activist whose life story is one of courage, resilience, and dedication to justice.
Stephen Moylan – Unsung Irishman who named a nation
Stephen Moylan earned his spot in the pantheon of American heroes for being the first person to write the words “United States of America.”
Dr David Ramsay: Celtic Carolinian
This revolutionary hero was also a pioneering physician, noted scholar – and possibly the first American politician to be assassinated.