Lecture Notes: The Racial Classification of the Irish in the 19th Century

Introduction

• Lecture by Danielle Romero on American identity and family stories, particularly focusing on Irish heritage.
• Discussion on how the Irish were historically classified racially and their struggle for identity.

Historical Background

• In 1885, John Beddoe, a British Anthropologist, created the 'Index of Nigrescence,' a scale measuring 'Blackness.'
• Irish people were subjected to racial classification similar to African-Americans during the 19th century.
• Irish were not considered fully white and their features were exaggerated in media.

Scientific Racism

• Science was used to justify racial hierarchies, termed as 'scientific racism.'
• Phrenology was a prevalent pseudoscience used to determine intelligence and morality based on skull shape.

The Index of Nigrescence

• John Beddoe studied 13,000 men ranking them by hair color.
  • Red/blonde hair: 1 point
  • Brown/Chestnut: Neutral
  • Dark hair: 1 point
  • Black hair: 2 points
• Conclusion: Irish, Welsh, and Scots considered darker and lower than Anglo-Saxons.

Cultural and Social Impacts

• Widespread belief and publication of racial hierarchies in media.
• Discrimination against Irish immigrants in America and Britain.
• Charles Kingsley, among others, referred to the Irish as 'human chimpanzees.'

The Irish in America

• Irish immigrants in America faced prejudice and were depicted negatively in media.
• "No Irish Need Apply" was a common sign, proving real discrimination.
• Irish were seen as dangerous and unfit for citizenship.
• Political cartoons portrayed Irish as outcasts in the 'American Melting Pot.'

Assimilation and Identity Shift

• Irish distanced themselves from other marginalized groups, aligning politically with Anglo-Saxons.
• Many Irish Americans became foundational community members, aiding in identity shift.
• Despite initial Catholic background, Irish adopted local customs and language.

Conclusion

• The history of Irish racial classification shows race as a tool of power rather than a fixed category.
• Racial categories can change over time, emphasizing the malleability of racial hierarchies.
• Important to acknowledge this history to avoid repeating past patterns of marginalization.

Discussion

• The lecture encourages reflection on personal heritage and understanding of racial identity.
• Suggests further engagement through Danielle Romero's other works on the Irish-American experience.