Transatlantic: An Irish American History Podcast · Fin Dwyer & Damian Shiels

3. 1917- The American Invasion of Ireland

·1 hr 1 min·5 clips

Discover how thousands of US troops secretly operated in Ireland during World War I, a story few know today.

This episode explores the largely unknown story of thousands of American military personnel stationed in Ireland during World War I. Hosts Finn Dewar and Damian Shields, who researches social history using U.S. military records, focus on the period following America's 1917 entry into the war. Shields conducted specific research for the 100th anniversary of this event, examining its two-way social impact. The hosts investigate the experience of U.S. forces in Ireland and their influence on Irish communities, particularly local women. Their research methodology included analyzing American newspapers for soldiers' letters sent home from Ireland. Some findings from this work are published on platforms like the Middleton Archaeology and Heritage blog. The episode promises to share specific letters and stories uncovered during this process. A central topic is the contrast between common knowledge of Irish service in British forces and the obscured history of the American military presence. The narrative will detail the immediate arrival of U.S. personnel in Ireland after America joined the war. Shields' personal research interest drives the episode's focus on everyday social interactions rather than just military strategy. One anticipated insight is how life in Ireland affected the American soldiers stationed there. A parallel focus is the profound effect these foreign troops had on Irish society at a local level. The episode aims to reveal personal connections and relationships formed during this historical intersection. The tone is conversational and investigative, framed by the hosts' shared curiosity for overlooked history. The style is educational, rooted in archival research and primary source analysis like personal letters. Listeners interested in niche World War I history or Irish-American social connections would find this compelling. Those seeking broad military narratives or pre-20th century history might prefer other episodes.

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