New Orleans is one of the most famous cities in the American South. World-renowned for Mardi Gras, the city has a unique history. Founded by the French, it was also an outpost of the Spanish, today, it is famous for its Creole and Cajun culture. However, the city also became home to tens of thousands of Irish emigrants in the 19th century. In this final episode of Season 1 (don't worry, we are already prepping Season 2), Damian and Fin are joined by Dr. David Gleeson, an expert on the Irish in the American South. David details the origins of New Orleans, when the Irish first arrived, how they shaped the city, and how they were influenced by its unique culture.

We are currently preparing Season 2, which is coming in early 2025. In the meantime, we are recording a special bonus Christmas episode where we answer your questions and share some fascinating stories we didn't get to include in Season 1. If you have any questions, get in touch at transatlanticseries@gmail.com.

Check out David's books:

• The Irish in the American South 1815-1877 Link
• The Green and the Gray: The Irish in the Confederate States of America (Civil War America) Link

Sound by Kate Dunlea

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Many Irish Americans trace their roots back to the Famine emigrants who escaped the death and disease that ravaged Ireland in the 1840s. In this episode, we delve into the harrowing journeys these emigrants faced aboard the infamous "Coffin Ships." Join us as we explore the stories of these resilient individuals, uncovering who they were and the compelling reasons behind their flight from Ireland. We also dissect the grim realities of their transatlantic voyage, encapsulated in the chilling term ‘Coffin Ships.’

Pre-order Damian’s new book Green and Blue: Irish Americans in the Union Military, 1861–1865 at https://lsupress.org/9780807183700/green-and-blue/

Sources mentioned in the episode.

The Coffin Ship by Cian T. McMahon.

Fin Dwyer: A Lethal Legacy: A History of Ireland in 18 Murders

The Irish History Podcast: The Great Famine Series Irish Histord

National Famine Museum, Strokestown Co. Roscommon

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In this episode, Fin and Damian explore the life of one of the most renowned Irish American women in history: Mother Jones. Known as a fearless labour organiser at the turn of the 20th century, she played a pivotal role in the often violent struggles between workers and employers. Her very name instilled fear in the authorities, with one prosecutor famously calling her "the most dangerous woman in America."

Mother Jones's backstory is equally fascinating.

In this intriguing episode, Fin and Damian take you back to early 19th-century Cork, where she survived the Famine. They then follow her story after she emigrated to the US where she endured personal tragedy. Despite these challenges, she rose to become a leading figure in the American labour movement in the early 20th century. Remarkably active into her 70s and 80s, her fascinating story is summed up in her catchphrase: “Mourn the dead, and fight like hell for the living."

Buckle up for one of the most incredible stories from Irish American history!

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Get in Touch with Fin and Damian Transatlanticseries (at) gmail.com

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