Author(s): Rory Fitzpatrick; Kenneth McNally (Photographer)

General History

The Ulster Scots came to the north of Ireland in the 17th century and today constitute the dominant strain among Ulster Protestants. They brought with them their Calvanist beliefs, a stern work ethic and a fiercely independent spirit. Religious discrimination led thousands of them to cross the Atlantic, where many became famous names in American history, including Davy Crockett, Kit Carson, Stonewall Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant, the Gettys and Mellons.