New documentary traces Irish role in Native American history

They were exiles searching for a future, and they landed on lands already rich with history. Éire agus Na Chéad Naisiúin, a new TG4 documentary, reveals how the Irish and North America’s First Nations shaped each other’s stories — sometimes as allies, often as enemies.

Filmed as a road journey across the United States, the programme traces connections ranging from trade and alliance to conflict and displacement.

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It draws on contributions from Irish historians and Indigenous voices, and was produced by Ronin Films with support from the Irish Language Broadcast Fund and Coimisiún na Meáin.

Among the figures explored is Sir William Johnson, an 18th-century Irish trader and landowner in New York who developed close ties with the Mohawk Nation.

Mohawk elders Kay Olan and Tom Porter reflect on his influence and its legacy.

The documentary also examines the role of Irish Americans in the displacement of Indigenous communities.

Stories include the Baker Massacre, and the actions of generals such as Philip Sheridan and Thomas Francis Meagher.

Many Irish emigrants, arriving in the aftermath of the Great Famine, found work in the US Army and took part in campaigns including the Battle of Little Bighorn and Wounded Knee.

Captain Myles Keogh, who died at Little Bighorn, and Hugh McGinnis, who later spoke of the horrors of Wounded Knee, are among those highlighted.

At the same time, the film explores examples of solidarity.

Choctaw artist Waylon Gary White Deer (pictured above in Donegal) recalls the Choctaw Nation’s donation to Ireland during the Great Famine and reflects on shared experiences of dispossession.

Historian Michael Donahue at the home of General Philip Sheridan in Cavan

Other figures, such as Donegal-born miner Micí MacGabhann and anthropologist James Mooney, are shown engaging with Indigenous struggles and traditions with respect and empathy.

The documentary concludes with Lakota historian Dakota Wind Goodhouse drawing parallels between Irish and Lakota traditions, calling for reflection and reconciliation.

Éire agus Na Chéad Naisiúin will air on TG4 as part of its autumn schedule.