Irish Cultural Society
of San Antonio Texas
MINUTES 21APR01
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IRISH CULTURAL SOCIETY
MEETING MINUTES:
- APRIL 21, 2001
group entertained as members gathered for the program
presented at San Antonio College by Dr. Michael Hogan. He
was introduced by Nora Olivares. His documentary "St.
Patrick's Battalion" won Best Historical Documentary at
the Cannes Film Festival. It was made at the same time as
the film "One Man's Hero", starring Tom Berenger. Its
premiere showing was in Texas. Dr. Hogan's book The Irish
Soldiers of Mexico was made available for purchase.
The Mexican war was a disturbing piece of history and the
least understood of all our major wars. It was concurrent
with the Irish famine. Many immigrants joined the U. S. Army
in the hope of obtaining U. S. citizenship. Of the 9000 who
deserted, only 48 were executed (The San Patricios). The rest
were pardoned, as they were needed for the Union Army in the
Civil War which was to follow. Dr. Hogan cited the values
Mexicans and Irish share: religions, respect for women, love
of words, and a passionate interest in their history.
Business was suspended in favor of an extra-special luncheon
and an informal chat with the author.
Respectfully submitted
Peggy Hill, Secretary