Gael-Mheiriceánaigh, or Irish-Americans, are an integral part of American culture. Comprising about 10.5% of the population, these 33 million Americans have been helping shape America since the 17th century through their participation in politics and religion, to excelling in fields such as journalism, entertainment, and sports. Irish-Americans have been fully incorporated in all spheres of America society, but they still carry their pride and identity with them. Check out these Americans who have origins in the Emerald Isle.
The actor is Irish on both sides. His mother was born in County Longford, Ireland, while his paternal grandmother was born in Australia to Irish parents.
The 1990s icon was of Irish descent on his father’s side, whose family—originally named “Cobane”—emigrated from Carrickmore, County Tyrone, in 1875 where they worked as shoemakers.
One of America’s greatest modern writers was of Irish descent of both sides, though he didn’t identify as Irish-American. Times were different in the early 20th century, and Fitzgerald most likely rejected his ancestry because it set him apart from the elite he wished to be a part of.
Famous Americans with Irish roots
Some are obvious, others not so much
CELEBRITY Ancestry
Gael-Mheiriceánaigh, or Irish-Americans, are an integral part of American culture. Comprising about 10.5% of the population, these 33 million Americans have been helping shape America since the 17th century through their participation in politics and religion, to excelling in fields such as journalism, entertainment, and sports. Irish-Americans have been fully incorporated in all spheres of America society, but they still carry their pride and identity with them. Check out these Americans who have origins in the Emerald Isle.