This December, join Dr. Damian Shiels for a comprehensive three-week online course titled "Researching the American Civil War." Explore the remarkable stories of Irish bravery, sacrifice, and resilience during the American Civil War.

Dr. Shiels, a renowned historian and author, will guide participants through the fascinating stories of the approximately 250,000 Irish Americans who served in the Union forces and the 20,000 Irish-born men who fought for the Confederacy. Whether you're a history buff or a genealogist eager to uncover family connections, this course promises to illuminate the significant role played by Irish emigrants in one of America's most pivotal conflicts.

AIHS history course: Researching the American Civil War course details,  dates and times:

Session 1: An Introduction to the Irish Experience of the American Civil War

When: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at 6:00pm

An exploration of where Irish soldiers fought, the units they served in, and notable Irish figures in the war.

Session 2: Researching the Irish of the American Civil War: A Guide to Pension Files

When: Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 7:00 PM

A deep dive into pension files—the largest repository of 19th-century Irish emigrant data—offering insights into both soldiers and their families.

Session 3: Researching the Irish of the American Civil War: A Guide to Military & Other Records

When: Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 7:00 PM

An overview of other archival and digital resources, along with practical tips for uncovering individual stories.

Each session will feature a 45-minute presentation followed by a 30-minute Q&A session, ensuring ample time for personalized guidance.

About Dr. Damian Shiels

Dr. Shiels is one of the foremost experts on Irish participation in the American Civil War. His extensive body of work includes The Irish in the American Civil War (2014), The Forgotten Irish: Irish Emigrant Experiences in America (2016), and Green and Blue: Irish Americans in the Union Military 1861-65 (2025).

As the founder and editor of IrishAmericanCivilWar.com, Dr. Shiels has created the largest online repository of information on this topic. He also co-hosts Transatlantic: An Irish American History Podcast.

Why Attend?

This course provides unparalleled insight into a crucial chapter of Irish and American history. Participants will learn how to locate and interpret a wealth of resources, from pension files to military records, shedding light on the lives of Irish emigrants and their families during and after the war.

Register Today

Don't miss this chance to uncover the Irish connection to the American Civil War. Register now to secure your spot and take a deep dive into this rich history.

Click here to register for the course