The Truth About Shamrocks
and Red Hair
The Irish are generally known as light-hearted and friendly people, but if you want to tick them off, ask them if they’re English.
A common misconception Americans have about Ireland is that it’s part of the United Kingdom. The fact is, while Northern Ireland (a separate country) is still part of the UK, the much larger Republic of Ireland has been proudly independent since 1922.
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, let’s debunk a few more Irish myths.
Myth #1: The Irish Over Imbibe
While it’s true that the Irish have been known to throw back a wee pint or two, Ireland’s annual alcohol consumption ranks lower than that of France, Austria, and Spain. So how did the stereotype of the “drunken Paddy” get started?
Blame Plato. The Greek philosopher was the first to describe Celts as “drunken and combative” in his dialogue titled “The Laws.”
The myth was perpetuated by 16th-century English colonizers (who viewed themselves as superior to the local Irish) and later by 19th-century anti-immigrant propaganda.
Myth #2: Ireland’s National Emblem Is the Shamrock
Believe it or not, the Irish national emblem is the harp, not the shamrock. Ireland is the only country on the planet whose national emblem is a musical instrument.
Dublin’s Trinity College is home to the world’s oldest harp, which dates back to the 12th century.
Even more surprising, Ireland’s official color is not green – it’s blue! But don’t beat yourself up if you didn’t know that one. Many nationals are unaware of this, as well, since green has become synonymous with the “Emerald Isle” for generations.
Myth #3: Most Irish Are Redheads
Ireland does have a larger percentage of redheads than any other country, but it’s still only about 10% of the entire population.
In other words, 90% of the Irish display any of the other hair colors under the sun. You won’t stand out in a Dublin pub if you’re a natural brunette.
Ireland’s relatively large population of redheads is due to the recessive gene MC1R and the island’s centuries-long geographic isolation.
About 30% of the country’s blondes and brunettes also carry the MC1R gene.
That’s Funny!
One Irish characteristic that is not a myth is their inherently unique and self-deprecating sense of humor (“the craic”), as demonstrated by comedian David Nahill:
Happy St. Patrick’s Day
from AG Law!
Sources:
Featured Image: Adobe, License Granted
Ireland Before You Die
Statista
The Expat Chronicles