Hugh O'Brien Is Sworn in as Bostons First Irish Mayor

Hugh O'Brien is sworn in as Bostons first Irish mayor
  • January 5, 1885

Hugh O’Brien, commonly known as Hugh O’Brien, was sworn in as Boston’s first Irish mayor on January 04, 1885. He was a prominent figure in Boston’s political history and a member of the Democratic Party. Hugh O’Brien’s election as mayor was a significant milestone for the Irish community in Boston, which had faced discrimination and challenges in American society.

Key points about Hugh O’Brien and his mayoralty:

  1. Irish Heritage: Hugh O’Brien was of Irish descent, and his election as mayor was seen as a triumph for the Irish American community in Boston.

  2. Political Career: Prior to serving as mayor, O’Brien had a successful political career, which included time in the Massachusetts State Senate.

  3. Challenges: Boston had a history of anti-Irish sentiment, including during the mid-19th century. O’Brien’s election marked a shift in the city’s politics and demographics.

  4. Legacy: Hugh O’Brien’s mayoralty was an important step in the inclusion and representation of Irish Americans in Boston’s political landscape. It reflected the growing influence of the Irish American community in the city and had a lasting impact on Boston’s political history.

Hugh O’Brien’s election as Boston’s first Irish mayor was a significant moment in the history of Irish Americans in the city and marked a changing political landscape that would continue to evolve over the years.