Doesn't being Irish seem over-rated a little?

Question

I'm sorry to offend anyone by asking this, but keep in mind I am also part Irish, a litttle more than a quarter, and I honestl;y don't think being Irish or part Irish is anything spectacular. Maybe I would feel different if I ever went to Ireland? Honestly people say stuff like "oh, the Irish blood gives you strength" and yadayada but even though I'm part Irish, I don't think this has any impact on my life. I think Irish people and being Irish is just like any other white person, and any other person for that matter. Nobody makes a big deal about being Swedish, or any other type of Scandanavian, or even eastern European like Russian, but why the big deal about being Irish?

Answer 1

I'm from Ireland and I also think that being Irish is a bit over-rated.

Some people say that being Irish means that you're not English. Whenever I am abroad I have to stress to that I'm Irish, and not English. Being Irish usually gets a better friendlier reaction, possibly because of the negative effects of the British Empire on people around the world.

The Irish have had a difficult and oppressed history, and have somehow managed to avoid being anglised by the British Empire despite their efforts over 800 years. The Irish people still have their own unique history, culture, language, sports, arts etc. The Irish have always been able to have a sense of humour too, and like to enjoy themselves. Irish people are usually imagined as being wilder as opposed to the more civilised white settlers from England, Scandanavia, Germany etc.

I think all of these factors contribute to a romantisied image of a wild, untameable, artistic, strong and independent celtic people. Maybe this is how people in the modern world like to view their ancestors.

But in spite of this romantic perception, just being Irish doesn't make you any of these things. People in modern Ireland are just the same as most Westerners, with the same behaviours and attitudes. But perhaps we still have a better sense of humour than other countries.

Being Irish is a nice background to have, but it's not spectacular :)

Answer 2

I agree, all the Irish people I've ever met (Irish Americans, not from Ireland) make a big deal about being Irish. They think that Irish is the best.

Answer 3

many irish came to America with little more than their pride. they became one of the most discriminated against groups,while doing a lot towards building and developing the US. the fact that they survived it intact is reason to have pride.

Answer 4

Actually there are peoples of every nationality in the world that are quite proud of their heritage.