Olivia Medical Anthropology

St. Patrick’s Day commemorates the anniversary of St. Patrick’s death, March 17 (in the fifth century). It also honors Irish culture, heritage, and Christianity’s arrival to Ireland. Patricius (Saint Patrick) began preaching Christianity once he arrived in Ireland but the Celts were unwelcoming and did not accept him or his sermons. He was forced off the mainland, and on small islands off the coast of Ireland he gained followers before returning. One of the most famed legends of St. Patrick is his description of the Holy Trinity using the shamrock. To the pagans in Ireland, he explained the concept of Christianity, the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit), using the three leaves on the Irish clover. Centuries later, Irish Catholics were provoked by the Potato Famine and its threat of starvation to flee to America. As immigrants poured into America, they continued to hold onto their traditions, celebrations, and culture. Because the vast majority of Americans were Protestant at the time, they were societal outcasts due to their differing religious beliefs. Cultural contrasts caused issues such as employment problems, since many were unwilling to hire them, and after celebrating St. Patrick’s Day they were mocked. Over time, the Irish were accepted much due to their contribution to Civil War efforts, and altogether St. Patrick holds a firm place in Irish heritage and history.