From Finnish Shores: A Journey into Irish-American History with Damian Shiels

Irish Stew Podcast

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In his third appearance on Irish Stew, historian Dr. Damian Shiels joins Martin Nutty for a wide-ranging and thought-provoking conversation. Now living in Finland, Damian shares the personal story behind his move abroad, driven by Ireland’s rising cost of living and the opportunities remote work provides.

The episode explores Damian’s latest projects, including "Transatlantic", a new podcast he co-hosts with Finn Dwyer, which dives deep into the historical connections between Ireland and America.

Damian also discusses his groundbreaking new book, Green and Blue: Irish Americans in the Union Military, 1861–1865. The culmination of 15 years of research, the book offers a powerful and detailed examination of the Irish experience during the American Civil War, revealing the socio-economic realities and identities of Irish soldiers in Union ranks.

Throughout the episode, themes of immigration, identity, and racism are explored, connecting past and present. Damian and Martin reflect on how understanding the history of the Irish diaspora can illuminate today’s pressing issues—from housing crises to evolving notions of Irish identity, both at home and abroad.

Episode Details: Season 7, Episode 24; Total Episode Count: 127

Chapters

1. Introduction (00:00:00)

2. The Move to Finland (00:01:44)

3. Comparing the Irish - Finnish Historical Experience (00:06:32)

4. The Irish in Finland (00:11:39)

5. Transatlantic: A Podcast Backstory (00:14:37)

6. Researching for Transatlantic (00:17:35)

7. Talking Disputed Irish Identiity (00:19:38)

8. Irish Diversity: Past and Present (00:25:11)

9. Housing Woes: Old and New (00:31:37)

10. Green and Blue: 15 Years of Work (00:35:39)

11. Irish Lives in US Pension Files (00:38:57)

12. The Pension Files: An Alternate Genealogical Source (00:45:46)

13. Irish Racism Origins (00:47:43)

14. Bigotry, Racism, Class and Irish America (00:53:44)

15. Martin Recaps (00:57:34)

16. Credits (00:58:33)

136 episodes

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