Redefining Irishness in a Coastal Maine City, 1770-1870: Bridget's Belfast

Bridget s Belfast explores how Irish immigrants in a coastal Maine city shaped and reshaped their identity, focusing on class, status, and gender rather than ethnicity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Bridget s Belfast explores how Irish immigrants in a coastal Maine city,1770-1870, crafted and transformed their identity within a rural New England community. A remarkable forty percent of Irish immigrants in the United States chose to settle in rural regions, necessitating unique approaches to embodying Irishness. Class, status, and gender played a paramount role, surpassing ethnicity in importance. Delving into a close analysis of diaries, newspapers, local histories, and public documents enables a nuanced comprehension of the immigrant experiences, challenging stereotypes and shedding light on the evolving Scotch-Irish identity of the nineteenth century.

Introduction:
Bridget s Belfast delves into the captivating story of Irish immigrants in a coastal Maine city,1770-1870, as they navigated the process of crafting and transforming their identity within a rural New England community. A remarkable forty percent of Irish immigrants in the United States chose to settle in rural regions, necessitating unique approaches to embodying Irishness. Class, status, and gender played a paramount role, surpassing ethnicity in importance. Delving into a close analysis of diaries, newspapers, local histories, and public documents enables a nuanced comprehension of the immigrant experiences, challenging stereotypes and shedding light on the evolving Scotch-Irish identity of the nineteenth century.

The Significance of Rural Settlements:
The choice of rural settlements by Irish immigrants was driven by various factors. Firstly, rural areas offered a chance for economic opportunities and a fresh start, particularly in industries such as agriculture and manufacturing. Additionally, rural communities often had a more relaxed and welcoming atmosphere compared to large urban centers, providing a sense of community and support for immigrants.

Challenges of Rural Life:
However, rural life also presented its own set of challenges for Irish immigrants. They faced discrimination, social exclusion, and limited access to education and healthcare. Moreover, the isolation of rural areas could make it difficult for immigrants to integrate into the local community and establish social connections.

Embodying Irishness in Rural Settings:
In order to succeed in rural areas, Irish immigrants had to adapt their Irishness to fit the local context. They emphasized their work ethic, loyalty, and resilience, which were highly valued in rural communities. They also developed a sense of pride in their Irish heritage and traditions, often celebrating them through cultural events and festivals.

The Evolution of a Scotch-Irish Identity:
Over time, Irish immigrants in rural Maine developed a distinctive Scotch-Irish identity. This identity was characterized by a blend of Irish and Scottish cultural influences, as well as a strong sense of community and independence. Scotch-Irish individuals often held important positions in local politics, business, and agriculture, contributing to the development of the region.

Conclusion:
Bridget s Belfast provides a valuable insight into the complex and multifaceted process of Irish immigration and identity formation in rural New England. By examining the experiences of Irish immigrants in a coastal Maine city,{PHONE}, the book sheds light on the ways in which they shaped and reshaped their identity, adapting to the local context while maintaining a strong connection to their Irish heritage. The study highlights the significance of class, status, and gender in shaping immigrant experiences and the evolution of a distinctive Scotch-Irish identity in rural settings.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032035079