The spread of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the U.S. was a way for Irish immigrant communities, who in the 19th century faced discrimination and opposition, to stake that ground, he says: “It’s a kind of immigrant Irish way of combating nativist antagonism against them.”

While corned beef and cabbage is commonly enjoyed in America on St. Patrick's Day, you might be surprised to learn that people in Ireland eat different foods.

Professor Richard Kearney and Michael Dowling were recognized for their continued contributions to research in Ireland over many years.