[Gay State Conservative]

And by the why, my Irish ancestors were the first true slaves brought over to the new world and were treated much more harshly than a black slave.

Your statement is not entirely accurate.First,the Irish were not "brought" here.They were driven out of Ireland by the Brits and chose to go to the US,Canada,Australia and other places.Yes,some were "transported" by British courts but the overwhelming majority (in the US,at least) came voluntarily.Second,I *sincerely* doubt that the typical Irish immigrant was treated as badly as was the typical black slave,although the Irish were once treated badly.

And,for the record,although my ancestors suffered greatly at the hands of the Brits and,as a result,had no choice but to emigrate I thank both my ancestors *and* the Brits for making it possible for me to be a US citizen.What I've seen of Ireland tells me that it's a dreary,depressing,God forsaken place.

[avacado]

The Irish were brought over and bought as indentured servants to serve 7 years. There was no incentive for an owner to treat well the Irish indentured servant as they neared their 7 year term. They were mostly worked to death toward the end. On the other hand, black slaves were owned and were the owners property which they had vested interest to keep healthy throughout their ownership.

Indeed, the Irish were the New World's first imported slaves and treated much more harshly than the subsequent black slaves.

[avacado]

"What I've seen of Ireland tells me that it's a dreary,depressing,God forsaken place."

Have you been there? I personally think the place is awesome and would love to go back for a long visit.