St. Patrick’s Day was originally a religious observance of the Patron Saint of Ireland but it has evolved into a grand cultural celebration for the Irish and the Irish-for-a-day. Under centuries of English rule over Ireland, the Irish were prohibited from using their own language, following their Roman Catholic faith, or owning their own land, among other proscriptions. When some Irishmen found themselves in the English Army and assigned to the “colonies,” they were surprised to be in a place where no one cared if they honored Saint Patrick. Long before the American Revolution, these British soldiers of Irish birth marched downtown by the old Saint Patrick’s Church and the St. Patrick’s Day Parade was born. So, yes, the New York Saint Patrick’s Day Parade predates the founding of our nation. You can find videos and information about the facts and fiction of St. Patrick’s Day on the History Channel.
Have a grand and glorious day. I, myself, will be busy remembering the history and singing the songs. And maybe a bit of Soda Bread would be in order.
Sláinte,
Terrie
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