Since Irish immigrants began settling in New Jersey during the seventeenth century; they have made a sizable impact on the state's history and development. As the budding colony established an identity in the New World; the Irish grappled with issues of their own: What did it mean to be Irish American; and what role would "Irishness" play in the creation of an American identity?In this richly illustrated history; Dermot Quinn uncovers the story of how the Irish in New Jersey maintained their cultural roots while also laying the foundations for the social; economic; political; and religious landscapes of their adopted country. Quinn chronicles the emigration of families from a conflict-torn and famine-stricken Ireland to the unfamiliar land whose unwelcoming streets often fell far short of being paved with gold. Using case histories from Paterson; Jersey City; and Newark; Quinn examines the transition of the Irish from a rejected minority to a middle-class; secular; and suburban identity. The Irish in New Jersey will appeal to everyone with an interest in the cultural heritage of a proud and accomplished people.
#263582 in Books Westview Press 1997-11-28Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x .57 x 6.00l; .77 #File Name: 0813333660256 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I love Engel. This is a great resource on Russian ...By Byzantium21I love Engel. This is a great resource on Russian women. I only wish there were more books like this!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. An interesting supplement to turbulent timesBy Explorer77Although this book does not contribute a new understanding to Soviet history; it does provide an uncommon voice - that of a range of women who lived through the past century of Russian and Soviet history. Poignant and fascinating; I recommend it for students of the area and/or history to get a sense of how the times affected some of its members.5 of 5 people found the following review helpful. Beautifully WrittenBy Karen E. ThomasBarbara Engel is one of my professors at the University of Colorado; so I might be somewhat biased in my opinion of her book. This collection of stories provides long overdue insight into the lives of the overlooked citizens of Russia and the Soviet regime: the women. Each life story is fabulously written; exceedingly interesting; and allows students to better understand this most complicated area of the world. I don't think I have ever liked a book that was required reading for a class as much as this one. Not only is Professor Engel an excellent writer; she is a wonderful teacher as well. I feel privileged to be in her class.
