Minister Brophy launches ‘Irish Stories in Latin America’ primary school resources

Remarkable stories of the Irish in Latin America are explored in a unique set of lesson plans for primary school students launched today by Minister for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora, Colm Brophy.

Developed by educator and historian Brian Kenny in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs through Ireland’s Embassy in Santiago, ‘Irish Stories in Latin America’ explores the stories of the Irish in Latin America, including historical figures such as Admiral William Brown, a Mayo man who became the founder of the Argentine navy; Eliza Lynch, a Cork-born woman who went on to become the first lady of Paraguay; and Bernardo O’Higgins, liberator and founding father of Chile.

This material, aimed at 5th and 6th year pupils, was developed under the auspices of Ireland’s Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean, launched by Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney in February 2022.

Launching these important resources today, Minister Brophy said:

"Ireland is hugely proud of its diaspora across the globe. For centuries, Irish women and men have travelled far and wide, playing a huge role in the histories of many countries around the world.

"This unique set of lesson plans explores the perhaps lesser-known stories of key Irish figures in Latin America, particularly those who travelled to the region in the 18th and 19th centuries.

"I hope that these lessons will inspire children to think of Ireland as a place that for centuries has been outward looking and connected with the wider world, and to remember the important role played by Irish people in the history of Latin America."

This project brings these historical figures to life and equips teachers with lesson plans to share these diverse stories with primary school children in Irish and Latin American schools.

The lessons can be found at: Irish Stories in Latin America: Educational Resource Pack: Ireland - this is Ireland.