How the Irish Became White-Noel Ignatiev

This marks the first nonfiction book I've read so far in this blog. How the Irish Became White is an explanation by author and historian Noel Ignatiev's observations on how the Irish went from being seen as "nonwhite" and being treated inferiorly to those of western European descent to becoming identified as white today.

I was interested to delve into this book because I knew vaguely of the issues that surrounded the Irish when they first emigrated to the United States to avoid the persecution they faced from the English: it was interesting to learn that the Irish were not only leaving because of the hopeless conditions caused by the famous Irish potato famine, but because Irish catholics had their rights severely stricken to prevent them from owning property, practicing catholicism, and holding certain jobs. The novel really drives the point in that they were effectively second-class citizens, making their actions as American citizens that more disappointing. 

It was sad to learn that effectively, the Irish utilized the presence of African Americans-a racial group often seen as equal or even lower than them-to position themselves above the lowest levels of society. along with being effective at organizing politically and having the advantage of literal whiteness. Ignatiev drives home the point that this is so disappointing in light of the Irish's strong anti-slavery roots in their home country, magnified by his portrayal of Daniel O'Connell, a prominent Irish political figure who was very admired and deplored slavery.

To me, this novel served as a great reminder of how race and the perception of different races is a construct of those in the highest levels of society. I've seen this play out in my own familial line. We are completely Polish and Slavic, and I've heard stories of my first-generation ancestors being mocked and scorned by other "white" people. Eventually, the Polish and Slavic also co-opted whiteness and were able to assimilate into that much safer title. It seems sad that in these cases, it comes at the expense of pushing other racial groups beneath you and just increasing that hatred. I was reminded of a famous quote by President Lyndon B. Johnson: "If you can convince the lowest white man he's better than the best colored man, he won't notice you're picking his pocket. Hell, give him somebody to look down on, and he'll empty his pockets for you."

I also found an article here that is against Ignatiev's view. What do you guys think about this book? And is there another historical event that you were shocked to learn about? Tell me anything and everything down below!