Great Britain has a truly varied range of cultures contributing to its national identity, with Scotland, England, and Wales all playing their part. However, Ireland is often forgotten, which we think is sad. To celebrate this country, here are 16 ways the Irish have influenced British culture.
Irish Literature
As The Greatest Books showcases, you don’t get much better literature than Irish writers like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and W.B. Yeats, all of whom have profoundly impacted British literature. Their works, celebrated for their wit, innovation, and depth, continue to be studied and appreciated, enriching the literary landscape and inspiring countless British authors.
Traditional Music
There are few people in this world who could resist the lively tunes of Irish folk music. English, Welsh, and Scottish people love this music, so much so that it has found a permanent home in British pubs and festivals. Instruments like the fiddle, tin whistle, and bodhrán create a distinctive sound that has influenced British folk music greatly. Three are just so many Irish pieces that are ingrained in the ears of Brits.
Dance
Irish dance, especially step dancing, has become popular in Britain in recent years, especially through shows like Riverdance. Everyone has loved these performances, sparking a newfound interest in learning traditional dances that even the Irish could have never expected.
Cuisine
Among all the incredible cuisines of the UK, Ireland’s hearty stews, soda bread, and colcannon have to be some of the best. Amazingly, it’s finally starting to find its way into British kitchens, especially during celebrations like St. Patrick’s Day, which often features Irish-inspired menus.
Language
The Brits are painfully aware of how hard Ireland is trying to keep its language alive, so they’ve started to adopt words and phrases over the years. Gaelic terms have long since enriched the English vocabulary, but this cultural exchange is growing, something that we hope brings the UK and Ireland closer together.
Theatre
There are an absurd number of incredible Irish playwrights, with Samuel Beckett and George Bernard Shaw being some of the most notable. They have, unsurprisingly, left a lasting legacy on British theater with their groundbreaking works, and they continue to be performed on our British stages to this day.
Sport
Gaelic games like hurling and Gaelic football have garnered interest in Britain, with expatriate communities forming clubs and organizing matches. These sports introduce British audiences to different athletic traditions, and as long as the Irish don’t call it ‘soccer,’ they’re well up for giving it a try.
Political Influence
Irish political leaders and activists have played enormous roles in British history, with figures such as Daniel O’Connell and Charles Stewart Parnell advocating for Irish rights. Back then, this was often the source of a lot of contention between our two nations, but thankfully, their views influenced British political thought and policies eventually, contributing to the broader narrative of social justice today.
Religion
Another way the Irish have influenced British culture is through religion. In the UK, Christianity typically appears as Protestant sects, whereas in Ireland, the Catholic Church rules. Ultimately, the UK is still a primarily Protestant country (and a secular one at that), but there has certainly been an increase in Catholicism over the last century.
Education
The scholars and educators of Ireland have contributed immensely to the British education system. Universities and schools benefit from the intellectual heritage of Irish academics, who bring diverse perspectives and expertise, enhancing the academic experience for students and faculty alike. It’s a wonderful act of sharing between two countries that we hope never ends.
Festivals
Even if someone knows nothing about Irish culture, they no doubt know all about St. Patrick’s Day, which is celebrated widely in Britain these days. These events highlight Irish culture through parades, music, dance, and food, something that was absent from our lives for all too long.
Film and Television
There are far too many incredible Irish actors, directors, and writers to list here, but so many have made significant contributions to British film and television. Their talents have brought compelling stories and characters to the screen, enriching the entertainment industry and influencing British cinematic and TV culture.
Migration
Irish migration has profoundly shaped British society. The influx of Irish people over centuries has led to vibrant communities that integrate Irish customs, traditions, and values into the broader British cultural mosaic. We more than welcome them because they have done nothing but bring friendliness, joy, and culture into our country.
Architecture
The architects and builders of Ireland are often overlooked, especially when it comes to their mark on British architecture. Their work includes iconic buildings and structures that blend Irish craftsmanship with British design, contributing to the unique aesthetic and historical richness of British cities and towns.
Folklore
How could this list be complete without mentioning Irish myths and legends, which have long since influenced British storytelling traditions. These tales have been shared and adapted, becoming part of the collective imagination and cultural heritage of Britain. Hopefully, Ireland has inherited some of our British folklore, too.
Humor
One of the most popular traits in Britain about Irish people is their cracking humor or “craic,” characterized by its wit and charm. It’s significantly influenced British comedy over the years, with comedians and writers from Ireland bringing their unique style to British audiences. This is continuing to this day, and we hope we continue having laughs together for years to come.