With the recent death of Ted Kennedy, I thought it would be interesting to look at other famous Americans of Irish descent:
The last five presidents of the United States (Ronald Reagan, both George Bushs, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama) are all descendants of Irish Immigrants. Not to mention George Washington, the first president and Joe Biden, the current vice-president. In fact, no less than 29 US presidents claim Irish descent. Nobody was willing to admit to being English- but we have our suspicions Richard Nixon!
Walt Disney’s father was a Canadian of Irish decent.
Michael Collins, astronaut.
Athletes Tom Brady, John McEnroe and Mark McGwire are all Irish Americans too.
There have been 9 Irish American Supreme Court justices including Sandra Day-O’Connor, Anthony Kennedy and William J. Brennan.
Actors George Clooney, Lara Flynn Boyle, Mel Gibson and every other actor whose name starts with Mc or O’ (Jerry O’Connell, Chris O’ Donnell, Rose McGowan etc. etc.)
Too many writers to count.
Were there any bad Irish Americans?
After extensive research, I can state categorically that yes, there were two. Billy the Kid (November 23, 1859 — July 14, 1881), who was really just a victim of circumstance himself and James “Whitey” Bulger (born 1929) – legendary Boston mobster and former leader of the Winter Hill Gang. Sorry Mr. Bulger, I’m sure you were only doing your best!
