Who Are the Scotch-Irish? History, Migration & Notable Americans

The term Scotch-Irish (or Scots-Irish) refers to descendants of Ulster Scots—Lowland Scots who settled in northern Ireland (Ulster) during the 17th-century Plantation of Ulster—then migrated to America in the 18th century. While often used interchangeably, "Ulster Scot" specifically denotes the Irish settlement period, whereas "Scotch-Irish" emphasizes the American immigrant identity.

Historical Background

• 1600s: Scottish Presbyterians colonize Ulster under English Crown sponsorship.
• 1700s: Facing religious restrictions, economic hardship, and land scarcity, 200,000+ migrate to American colonies.
• Primary Ports: Philadelphia, New Castle (DE), Charleston (SC).
• Settlement: Appalachian frontier—Pennsylvania, Virginia, Carolinas, Tennessee, Kentucky.

Cultural Traits

Scotch-Irish settlers brought:

• Presbyterian faith and church-centered communities
• Strong emphasis on education, literacy, and self-governance
• Fierce independence, militia tradition, and distrust of centralized authority
• Distinctive music, storytelling, and craft traditions (quilting, distilling)

Notable Scotch-Irish Americans

An outsized number of U.S. presidents claim this heritage:

• Andrew Jackson (7th)
• James K. Polk (11th)
• Ulysses S. Grant (18th)
• Woodrow Wilson (28th)
• Harry S. Truman (33rd)
• Jimmy Carter (39th)
• George H.W. Bush & George W. Bush (41st & 43rd)
• Bill Clinton (42nd)
• Barack Obama (44th, maternal line)

Other famous figures: Davy Crockett, Sam Houston, Stonewall Jackson, Mark Twain, John Wayne, and countless military leaders, pioneers, and politicians.

Legacy Today

Millions of Americans trace Scotch-Irish roots. Their influence persists in Appalachian culture, country/bluegrass music, evangelical Protestantism, and a political tradition valuing individual liberty and limited government. The Scotch-Irish story is a foundational thread in the American fabric.