"We honor their memory. In the name of the people of Mexico, I salute today the people of Ireland and express my eternal gratitude" [1]

The Mexican-American War saw the union of two unlikely allies – Mexico & Ireland. Mexico, just having fought for Independence, found themselves in a new war with the United States over land now known as the American Southwest. On U.S. soil, Irish immigrants arrived escaping famine in their country. They experienced harsh discrimination over their class, religious beliefs, and a general dislike for Ireland by U.S. Nativists at the time.

As war waged, Irish immigrants grew more sympathetic to the Mexican cause – drawing comparisons to their own homeland struggles and facing similar discrimination in the U.S. Many deserted the U.S. army to join the Mexican army, with whom they shared religion and a cause. Hundreds of Irish expatriates banded to form the Batallón de San Patricio, or the Saint Patrick's Battalion. 

To this day, they are seen as heroes in Mexico who came to fight in an hour of need. Irish bagpipers can be seen playing traditional Irish and Mexican music at Mexican Independence Day celebrations to this day.

CELEBRATE THE FRIENDSHIP OF MEXICO & IRELAND WITH THESE FUN ST. PATRICK'S RECIPES!

SHAMROCK CHOCOLATE MEXICANO

Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp La Monarca Chocolate Mexicano Mix
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Whipped Cream
• Green sugar sprinkles

Heat milk to desired temperature and blend (or whisk vigorously) the hot chocolate mix and peppermint extract! Top off with the whipped cream and green sprinkles and enjoy!