I feel that the heavy Irish participation in the war also mainstreamed them into society in a manner of speaking. There were many that of course that didn't want to go, but that in no way takes away from those who willingly fought for this their adopted country. Speaking also of the Germans, my own Russian family and others. About the New York Draft Riot. While the draft was in fact a catalyst, there were also other social-economic factors involved. Another point is that the riot was lead by street gangs...Bowery Boys, True Americans, Dead Rabbits, Plug Uglies and others. The previous year had witness the largest gang fight in our history. So while the Draft was a factor, it was basically a cover to loot, steal and kill Negroes to the great delight of these thugs. I suggest our Southern friends read...Gangs of New York by Herbert Asbury...someday. I was visiting in Canada and saw the area where the Fenians were stopped.