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In Ireland, Gaelic remains omnipresent. Although the first language spoken is English, Irish Gaelic has endured through the centuries, and still holds a special place in people’s daily lives. And the term you’ll hear most often locally is “Erin go Bragh” (/ˌɛrɪn ɡə ˈbrɑː/). It’s one of those patriotic phrases to which the Irish are so attached. Scandalized as a slogan, it can be found just about everywhere: on clothes, on caps, in Irish pubs…and so on. A symbol of belonging to Ireland, this expression is one of the most powerful phrases in Irish Gaelic. A must for a better understanding of the country and its culture!
Irish flag – Iker Merodio – ccErin
This expression developed around the 18th century. Invented during a rather turbulent period in history, it helped unite the Irish in their conflict with the British.
A purely Irish invention, it was originally written as“Éire go Brách“.
It was a purely Gaelic expression, which later became anglicized as “Erin go Bragh”.
It conveyed a sense of patriotic unity among the Irish, and was seen as an oath of allegiance to Ireland.
If we break down the expression, this is what we get:
You’ve guessed it: this is one of Ireland’s most patriotic catchphrases. It’s a testament to the Irish people’s attachment to their island, and a reminder of the centuries of bitter struggle Ireland endured in the face of war and British imperialism.
It can be found on flags and in songs, and some Irish pubs and local establishments bear the name.
