Few things are sadder than a missed opportunity. The story of the San Patricios, the Irish emigrants and their comrades of other ethnic groups who fought for Mexico during the U.S.-Mexican War of 1846-48, is rich and underexplored dramatic material. Complex and stirring issues of loyalty and heroism resound throughout the saga of the Saint Patrick's Battalion, which consisted … [Read more...] about Film Forum: A Late Encounter with the Enemy
In This Issue 2000
Why Famine Came to Ireland
The potato blight that arrived in Europe in the summer of 1845 was, like the potato itself, an American export. The fungus that caused the blight was a microscopic organism that would not be identified scientifically for another fifteen years. But even after its identification, no effective treatment for the blight would be found till a Frenchman named Millardet would notice … [Read more...] about Why Famine Came to Ireland
A New Dawn
"The question before the House, in view of the apathy, neglect, and lack of understanding, which in this House has shown to these people in Ulster, whom it claims to represent, is how in the shortest space it can make up for fifty years of neglect, apathy, and a lack of understanding...""If British troops are sent in, I should not like to be either the mother or sister of an … [Read more...] about A New Dawn
When Hope and History Rhymed
The political process gets underway in Northern Ireland. 12/14/99: A "day unlike any other" was how Taoiseach Bertie Ahern described his feelings at the history-making first meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council in Armagh City on Monday (December 13). While the media gave massive coverage to the event - it was broadcast live on BBC Northern Ireland Television - the … [Read more...] about When Hope and History Rhymed
The Real Byrne
A revealing insight into the life of Irish actor Gabriel Byrne. Gabriel Byrne is a paradox. Most articles focus on his dark, brooding persona while playing up his rugged, Celtic good looks, but to see him in person you're struck by his gentle manner and keen sense of humor. And while there is no denying that he is a Hollywood star with all that that entails -- homes in New … [Read more...] about The Real Byrne