John Riley

The story behind

John Riley is a song by Joan Baez, telling the story of an Irish soldier who lived in the 19th century. It's about John Patrick Riley, born in Ireland, who emigrated to the United States. There he became a lieutenant in the American army, but decided to desert before the war against Mexico was declared. He joined the Mexican army and formed part of the San Patricio Battalion, along with other Irishmen and Catholics who rejected the discipline of the American army.