Via Ron, Gates and Crowley both related to the O’Neill’s:
Ironically, James Crowley, whose name in Gaelic means “hardy warrior,” is also descended from the same line as Gates, having very close links to Niall of the Nine Hostages.
So the two men who took part in what is now an infamous confrontation outside the Gates home near Harvard this month are actually related through common Irish lineage — one of the more extraordinary aspects of the incident which has sparked worldwide headlines.
Gates is one of many famous African-Americans with Irish heritage, including President Barack Obama and award-winning author Alice Walker.
The article and the comments that follow are rich.
Update: Gates and Crowley to reconcile at White House?