In The Community
Over time, this religious celebration has turned into a celebration of Irish culture and heritage, packed with parades, good luck charms like the three-leafed shamrock, green clothes, and all things Irish, including food and drinks, particularly Irish beer. Among the countries that celebrate St. Patrick’s Day are the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa.
The reason why so many countries in the world have thriving Irish communities is, of course, immigration. Ireland is no stranger to economic hardship, political unrest, and famine, so Irish people have immigrated by the millions in search of a better life. This is a type of life experience they have in common with Latinos.
Actually, Latinos and Irish people have a lot of connections. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about the Irish in Latin American countries:
Most of the Irish people who chose Latin America landed in Argentina
Argentina is home to the fifth-largest Irish community in the world and the largest in Latin America. In the 18th century, Buenos Aires welcomed over 50,000 immigrants from outside the English-speaking world. They moved to rural areas, working as cattle ranchers and sheep farmers, and Argentina became their home away from home. Today, their descendants still live in the country, and they have a rich history there.
The Irish built the Cuban railroad
While Cuba isn’t usually associated with Irish immigration, Irish people did immigrate there even before the 1940s potato famine. That’s because Cuba and Latin America, in general, were prime destinations for struggling laborers. One of the waves of Irish immigration to Cuba happened in 1835, when over 370 workers, most of them Irish, were sent from New York to Havana to work on the Cuban Railway Commission. While the Irish were responsible for helping develop Cuba’s infrastructure, many of them died in the process. Moreover, once the railroad was done, they were abandoned there. This led to some Irish influence in Cuba’s economic, political, and cultural development, though the available research on it is minimal.
The Irish supported Mexico during the Mexican-American War
Battle of Buena Vista, lithograph by Currier & Ives, c. 1847
During the Mexican-American War, a group of Irish immigrants, known as the “San Patricios” or “Saint Patrick’s Battalion,” played a major role. They fought alongside Mexican forces against the U.S. and were driven by a common Catholic identity with the Mexicans. The San Patricios were brave and quite skilled in artillery, so they were of great help. Unfortunately, their support wasn’t enough to avoid the turn of the war against Mexico. Eventually, most of the San Patricios were captured at the Battle of Churubusco and punished, which included execution by hanging.
Simón Bolívar asked Irish soldiers for support during independence
Painting of Simón Bolívar by Arturo Michelena 1895
Simón Bolívar, known as the "Libertador" of South America, didn’t have a smooth campaign for independence from Spanish colonialism. He found himself in difficult situations because his army lacked experience, so he asked British and Irish soldiers for support, recruiting them into his army. The British Legions were mostly Irish veterans (1,700 of them) with extensive military and combat experience. They formed several units, such as the Venezuelan Lancers and Venezuelan Hussars. The help of the British Legions was essential in the fight for independence and the birth of the new republics of South America.
An Irish doctor established the first medical school in Buenos Aires
Sculpture in Buenos Aires dedicated to Miguel O'Gorman by the artist Miguel Blas y Fábregas
Born in Ireland, Miguel O’Gorman was a part of the expedition of the first viceroy of Río de la Plata (now Argentina) in 1777. When peace was reached with Portugal, he settled in Buenos Aires at 62 years old and is considered the father of modern medicine in the country. With over 10 years of experience and a medical degree from Paris, he established the Academy of Medicine in Montevideo, the first medical school in Buenos Aires. He also focused greatly on public health measures, introducing the latest vaccination methods to prevent the spread of disease.
Eliza Lynch became the unofficial “Queen of Paraguay”
Born in Charleville, North Cork, Eliza Lynch became a symbol of resilience in Paraguay. She lost her father during the Irish famine and then fled to France with her mother where she married at 16 to a French army officer. In high society, she met General Francisco Solano López, the billionaire heir to the President of Paraguay. They fell in love and went together to South America. Though they never got married, they lived together and she became not only the unofficial “Queen of Paraguay” (loved by the people and hated by the elite), but also one of the wealthiest women in South America. After witnessing López and their son's death in battle, Lynch was imprisoned and deported to Paris, where she spent her remaining days. Eventually, she was posthumously honored for her patriotism, with her remains repatriated to South America.
Cecilia Grierson became the first female physician in Argentina
Irish Argentine Cecilia Grierson was the first woman to obtain a medical degree in Argentina and she went on to accomplish so much more. She had a remarkable life that went beyond medicine because she challenged societal norms and advocated for the inclusion of women in professions like obstetrics. She founded the School of Nurses and Massage Therapists, pioneered specialties like gynecology, and was elected president of the First International Women’s Congress. You may have heard her motto before: “Deeds. Not words,” which perfectly summarizes her legacy.
Rómulo Antonio O'Farrill Jr. became one of Mexico’s media barons
Born in Puebla, Mexico, Rómulo Antonio O’Farrill Jr. was of Irish descent and he became one of the biggest media barons in Mexico. Alongside his dad Rómulo O’Farrill Silva, he set up Mexico’s first TV station in 1949. The family also started a newspaper chain “Novedades de México,” with a sister paper “The News,” which ran until 2002 and was one of the most-read English newspapers in Latin America. O’Farrill became known as a man of vision for growth and development, no matter the challenges.
Ambrose O’Higgins’s son became the first leader of independent Chile
Ambrose O'Higgins, born in Ballynary, Co Sligo in 1720, was an Irish man who became an essential figure in the history of Chile. He rose through the ranks of the Spanish colonial imperial service and went to South America in 1756, where he helped establish communication channels between Argentina and Chile. O'Higgins's career eventually led him to become the viceroy of Lima, the highest royal official in Spanish America. His son, Bernardo O'Higgins, inherited his wealth and ideals, becoming a revolutionary leader and the first ruler of an independent Chile.
William Brown became the father of Argentina’s navy
Born in Foxford, County Mayo, William Brown was a sailor and naval commander who founded the Argentine navy and is considered one of the nation’s heroes. He played a pivotal role in Argentina’s fight for independence, securing major victories against the Spanish. Brown served Argentina his entire life in wars that followed their independence from the Spanish and then he became governor of Buenos Aires until he died in 1857. His legacy endures to this day and Admirals of the Argentine Navy wear a replica of his sword.
Celebrate Traditional Holidays and Festivals
Photo by Fili Santillán on UnsplashNothing brings you closer to your heritage than celebrating Latino holidays and festivals. Whether it’s Día de los Muertos, Las Posadas, or Carnaval, participating in these cultural events can fill you with a sense of belonging. You don’t have to go all out if you’re short on time—simple things like cooking traditional meals, setting up an altar, or attending a local event can go a long way in keeping you connected.
Practice Your Spanish or Rock Your Spanglish
Photo by ELEVATE
Language is a powerful connector to our heritage. Even if you’re not fluent, using Spanish (or your family’s native language) in everyday conversations can help you maintain that tie to your roots. Call up your abuela or cousins and practice! Bilingualism is not just a skill—it’s a bridge to your culture. If you still don’t master Spanish as a second language, Spanglish is just as valid! Just remember, being able to speak Spanish or your family’s native language doesn’t make you more or less Latina. It’s a skill and it can help you connect to your roots, yes, but it’s not the end-all-be-all.
Explore Latino Art and Music
Photo by Yuting Gao
From reggaeton and salsa to mariachi and folkloric dances, Latino music is vibrant, diverse, and full of soul. Attending local concerts featuring Latino artists or creating a playlist with the sounds that remind you of home is a great way to connect to your roots on a daily basis. Art also plays a huge role in keeping cultural narratives alive, so keep an eye on Latino authors, local exhibitions by Latino artists, and more.
Get Involved in Your Local Latino Community
Photo by Hannah Busing on UnsplashCommunity is everything in Latino culture, and staying involved locally can keep that sense of connection strong. That’s not limited to just your family, though, so make sure to venture into your local Latino community. Volunteer at community centers, attend cultural events or join a Latino-focused organization. These are great ways to meet like-minded Latinos and stay rooted in shared traditions while nurturing new friendships. These spaces also offer opportunities to support one another and learn more about the issues affecting Latinos in the U.S.
Cook Traditional Food from Your Native Country
Photo by Frederick Medina on UnsplashFood is a universal language, and nothing brings back childhood memories quite like the smells of a dish that’s been passed down through generations. Make an effort to cook traditional recipes from your family’s country of origin, whether it’s tamales, arepas, empanadas, arroz con gandules, or anything in between. Cooking these meals is not only a great way to stay connected but also an opportunity to share your culture with your children if you’re a parent or your friends and close circle.
Teach Your Kids About Your Culture
Photo by Alena Darmel
Speaking of which, if you’re a mother, passing on your cultural heritage to your children is one of the most beautiful ways to keep traditions alive. Share stories, cook together, and teach them about the significance of certain holidays and traditions. Even if they don’t grow up in a Latino-majority environment, the simple act of teaching your children about their Latino culture will instill a sense of pride in their heritage. This will help them stay connected with their roots as well and strengthen their cultural identity.
Travel to Your Homeland
Photo by Gerrie van der Walt on UnsplashThere’s nothing quite like experiencing your culture firsthand. If possible, make trips to your homeland a part of your yearly or bi-yearly routine. Whether you’ve never been to your homeland or you haven’t been there since you moved to the U.S., visiting and spending some time there will immerse you in the culture and reignite or recharge your sense of belonging. If travel isn’t really an option for you, staying connected to your local Latino community is the next best thing.
Keep Your Family Traditions Alive
Photo by Alex wolf mx
Whether it’s your family’s Sunday dinner routine, a special holiday tradition, traditional fashion or hairstyles, or a spiritual practice, keeping those customs alive can be an anchor for you. Even if you’re far from your family or feel disconnected from your Latino culture, practicing these traditions will remind you of your heritage and keep it close at heart. Mundane customs and small moments can create a sense of connection in your everyday life, even when you’re miles away from where your roots begin.
By staying engaged with your heritage through these practices, you can maintain a strong connection to your Latino roots while still navigating life in the U.S. Your culture is a vital part of who you are, and it’s something that should be celebrated every day, so make sure to do that in any way you can.
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