In school in Texas in the 50's the story was covered reasonably well in the mandatory Texas history class. And as for why so many Irishmen were eager to desert and join the Mexicans? Ask why Joan Baez is half Irish and half Mexican. When catholics are shunned and dispised they tend to group together. Furthermore, the mere fact of Irishness was partly to blame. Can ye remember the signs, 'No Irish or dogs allowed'?