​The Wearing Of The Green Banjo / Mandolin Tab

​"The Wearing of the Green" is an iconic Irish folk song that is both a protest song and a patriotic anthem, associated with Ireland's long history of resistance and struggle for independence. The song's lyrics reflect the desire for Irish unity and freedom and are heavily tied to the political context of Ireland during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly focusing on the 1798 Rebellion against British rule.
Themes and Meaning:

1. Irish Nationalism and Patriotism:
   
   • The central theme of the song is Irish pride and the symbolism of the color green. Wearing the green refers to the Irish tradition of wearing green clothing or accessories, often associated with Irish nationalism and support for the Irish rebellion against British rule.
   • The color green has been a symbol of Irish identity for centuries, linked to the Irish flag, the Shamrock, and the Irish Catholic tradition. In this song, the "wearing of the green" is both a personal and collective act of solidarity with the Irish cause.
2. Rebellion and Resistance:
   
   • The song was written during a time of political unrest in Ireland. It references the 1798 Rebellion, a failed uprising by the United Irishmen, a group of Irish nationalists who sought to gain independence from British rule.
   • "The Wearing of the Green" symbolizes defiance against the British authorities, as those who wore green were seen as being in support of rebellion. In the song, those who wore the green were persecuted and sometimes even executed for their involvement in the uprising.
3. Persecution and Suffering:
   
   • The lyrics describe the harsh consequences faced by those who displayed their support for Irish freedom, including the arrest, imprisonment, and execution of Irish patriots. The worn and tattered green symbolizes the suffering and sacrifice that the Irish people endured in their fight for independence.
   • The song reflects the oppression the Irish faced under British rule, with the lyrics speaking to the tragedy of their struggle and the persecution that came with their defiance.
4. Hope for Future Freedom:
   
   • Despite the hardships described, the song carries a sense of hope for eventual freedom and victory. The theme of resilience is evident, as the Irish are depicted as willing to continue the fight for their rights, no matter the cost.
   • The spirit of defiance and courage conveyed in the song has made it a symbol of Irish pride and determination, inspiring generations of Irish nationalists and patriots.

Musical Style:

• The song is usually performed with traditional Irish instruments, such as the fiddle, flute, tin whistle, and guitar, giving it a lively and rousing feel, despite its serious message.
• Its melody is catchy and march-like, emphasizing the pride and strength of the Irish people and their fight for freedom.

Historical Context:

• The song was written in the late 18th century, during a period of great political and social turmoil in Ireland, especially during the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The United Irishmen, led by figures like Theobald Wolfe Tone, were calling for independence from Britain, and the wearing of green became a symbol of loyalty to the cause.
• After the failed rebellion, many Irish nationalists were executed or exiled, and green clothing was seen as a mark of resistance, often leading to punishment by the British authorities.

"The Wearing of the Green" remains an important symbol of Irish nationalism, rebellion, and resilience, celebrating Ireland’s struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by its people. It is still sung on St. Patrick’s Day and at various Irish cultural events, continuing to inspire pride and solidarity among the Irish people.

This old Irish rebel song was composed by Dion Lardner Boursiquor who was born in Dublin in 1820. Dion later becamea playwright and moved over to New York where he taught acting. He died in 1890.

The chords are included in the youtube video version.