While he was born in New South Wales, Australia, his family had migrated there from Scotland and Ireland. His father, Andrew Paterson, was a Scottish sheep farmer, and his mother, Rose Isabella Paterson, was of Irish descent.
This heritage is evident in Paterson's writing, particularly his use of the Scottish language and his portrayal of rural life. He also wrote about the Irish experience in Australia, such as in his poem "The Man from Snowy River," which features an Irish drover.
However, it's important to note that Paterson's cultural heritage is not just about his ancestry. He was also deeply influenced by the Australian landscape and culture, which he captured in his writing. He is considered one of the most important figures in Australian literature and a key figure in the development of a distinct Australian national identity.