Bill Clinton

“ But let us not forget the sacrifices, dedication, and profound achievements of the thousands of less well-known Irish Americans who have labored to make the United States a country of which we all can be proud. ”

“ Throughout the history of the United States, from the founding of our republic to the modern spread of our cultural influence around the globe, American life has been enriched continuously by the contributions of Irish Americans.
Although thousands of immigrants from Ireland had already come to America before the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the largest number emigrated from their homeland in the middle of the 19th century, when devastating famine overtook their native Ireland. ”

“ Many moved into our cities, where their hard work helped American industries, their political skills energized local government, and their culture added richness to urban neighborhoods. Others, freshly arrived from Cork, Kilkenny, or Belfast, kept moving all the way to the American West. ”