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Welsh

Welsh (Cymraeg) is a Western Brittonic Celtic language native to Wales, where it serves as an official language alongside English and is spoken by about 17.8% of the population aged three and over, totaling 538,300 speakers according to the 2021 census.^[1] Recent surveys, such as the Annual Population Survey for April 2024–March 2025, estimate 26.9% of the population aged 3+ (828,600 people) able to speak Welsh.^[2] As one of the oldest continuously spoken languages in Europe, it descends from the Brittonic languages of post-Roman Britain and has evolved through distinct historical phases, including Old Welsh (c. 800–1150), Middle Welsh (c. 1150–1450), and Early Modern Welsh (c. 1450–1700), with modern standardization influenced by the 1588 Welsh Bible translation.^[3] The language features a rich literary tradition, including medieval poetry and prose, and is characterized by its VSO (verb-subject-object) word order, mutations (initial consonant changes), and a vocabulary that has incorporated Latin, French, and English loanwords over centuries.^[3] Welsh exhibits four principal dialects, reflecting regional variations in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar: Wyndodeg (North Wales), Bowyseg (Northeast and Mid Wales), Ddyfyseg (Southwest Wales), and Gwenhwyseg (Southeast Wales), with the northern dialect often considered the prestige form in literature and media.^[3] These dialects arose from geographic isolation and historical influences, such as Anglo-Norman incursions in the south, but a standardized literary form—based on southern orthography since the 16th century—unites speakers in formal contexts.^[3] Despite mutual intelligibility, dialectal differences can affect comprehension, particularly in rural areas where traditional forms persist. The status of Welsh has transformed from marginalization under English rule—exemplified by the 1536 Laws in Wales Acts, which excluded it from legal use—to full official recognition through key legislation.^[4] The Welsh Language Act 1967 established a translation service and advisory council, while the 1993 Act mandated equal treatment in public services; the 2011 Welsh Language Measure further enshrined its official parity with English, creating enforceable standards for its use in governance, healthcare, and education.^[4] Today, the Welsh Government promotes the language via the Cymraeg 2050 strategy, aiming for one million speakers by 2050 through immersion education, media like S4C (the Welsh-language TV channel), and cultural events such as the National Eisteddfod.^[4]^[3] Although speaker numbers have declined from a peak of around 20.8% in 2001 to 17.8% in 2021, with the sharpest drops among children (e.g., 34.3% of 5–15-year-olds able to speak it), revitalization efforts have stabilized its use in northwestern strongholds like Gwynedd (64.4% speakers) and the Isle of Anglesey (55.8%).^[1] Outside Wales, communities persist in Patagonia, Argentina—established by 19th-century emigrants—and among diaspora groups in England and North America, though these number fewer than 100,000 globally.^[3] Welsh's survival underscores its role as a cornerstone of Welsh identity, fostering bilingualism that enriches public life while facing challenges from urbanization, migration, and digital accessibility.^[1]

Etymology and Historical Context

Origin of the Term "Welsh"

The term "Welsh" originates from the Old English noun wealh (plural wealas), which denoted a "foreigner," "Celt," or specifically the native Romano-British population encountered by Anglo-Saxon settlers. This usage reflected the perspective of Germanic invaders who distinguished themselves from the indigenous Brythonic-speaking inhabitants of post-Roman Britain. Over time, wealh acquired connotations of servitude, often equating the term with "slave" in early medieval contexts, as the Anglo-Saxons integrated captured or subjugated Britons into their society.^[5] The word traces its roots to the reconstructed Proto-Germanic walhaz, meaning "foreigner" or more precisely "Roman," "Romance-speaker," or "romanized Celt," derived from a Celtic tribal name like the Latin Volcæ. This Proto-Germanic term was applied broadly by Germanic tribes to non-Germanic peoples, particularly those associated with the Roman Empire, and it appears in cognates across European languages, such as Old High German Walh ("Celt, Roman, Gaul"), which influenced place names like Wales (Old English Wealas, "land of the foreigners"), Walloon (referring to Romance-speaking Belgians), and even walnut (from associations with Roman imports).^[6]^[5] In contrast, the native self-designation for the Welsh people is Cymry (singular Cymro), from which the name for Wales, Cymru, is derived. This term originates from the Brittonic combrogos, meaning "fellow-countryman" or "compatriot," reflecting a sense of shared kinship among the Brythonic peoples.^[7] In the historical setting of Roman Britain, which ended with the imperial withdrawal around 410 CE, the Brythonic Celts—romanized natives who spoke a precursor to Welsh—faced gradual incursions by Anglo-Saxon groups from the 5th century onward. These migrations, driven by climate pressures and opportunities in the destabilized former province, created a cultural and linguistic divide, with the incoming Germanic speakers using wealh to label the retreating or assimilated Britons as outsiders. The earliest attestations of wealh and its adjectival form wīelisc ("foreign, British, not Anglo-Saxon") appear in Old English manuscripts from the 8th century, such as legal and glossarial texts, marking the term's initial documentation amid ongoing Anglo-Saxon expansion.^[8]^[6] By the medieval period, the pejorative associations of wealh with enslavement had softened, transitioning into a more neutral ethnic descriptor for the people of Wales, who maintained their distinct Brythonic identity in the western regions beyond full Anglo-Saxon control. This evolution paralleled the consolidation of Welsh territories as a refuge for the Britons against eastern conquests.^[6]

Evolution in English Usage

In medieval English texts, the term "Welsh" was frequently used interchangeably with "Cymry," the native self-designation of the Welsh people, often in the context of border conflicts and cultural distinctions between the English and the Welsh. This portrayal reflected the Anglo-Welsh tensions following the Norman Conquest, where "Welsh" connoted both a geographic and ethnic identity tied to resistance against English expansion. For instance, in William Shakespeare's Henry IV, Part 1, the character Owen Glendower embodies the "Welsh" as a figure of mystical rebellion and ancient lineage, drawing on historical narratives of Welsh uprisings to highlight themes of national discord within Britain. Such depictions reinforced a perception of the Welsh as peripheral yet resilient, embedded in English literary traditions that viewed them through a lens of otherness. The 18th and 19th centuries marked a significant shift during the Romantic revival, where "Welsh" began to acquire more positive connotations associated with cultural heritage and national pride, influenced by antiquarian interests and literary romanticism. Figures like Iolo Morganwg (Edward Williams) played a pivotal role in this transformation by promoting Welsh bardic traditions and folklore, which elevated the term from a marker of marginality to one of poetic and mystical allure in English-language discourse. This era's enthusiasm culminated in the revival of the Eisteddfod, ancient Welsh festivals reimagined as modern cultural celebrations, which helped integrate "Welsh" into broader British Romantic narratives as a symbol of untamed natural beauty and ancient wisdom. English writers and travelers, such as those in the Welsh Tourist Board publications, increasingly romanticized the Welsh landscape and people, fostering a perception of "Welshness" as an enriching counterpoint to industrializing England. In the 20th century, the usage of "Welsh" evolved further amid broader geopolitical changes, incorporating influences from post-World War II decolonization movements that paralleled Welsh assertions of cultural autonomy within the United Kingdom. The term became intertwined with British identity politics, particularly as Welsh nationalism gained traction, shifting from romantic idealization to a more politicized emblem of regional distinction. This period saw "Welsh" invoked in debates over devolution and self-governance, reflecting a growing recognition of Wales as a distinct nation rather than a mere appendage of England. Key events underscored this evolution, notably the 1960s Welsh language movement, which mobilized protests and campaigns to preserve Cymraeg and reposition "Welsh" as a vital component of national identity in English-dominated institutions. The movement's activism, including the establishment of Welsh-medium education, amplified the term's association with linguistic rights and cultural revival. Culminating in the 1997 devolution referendum, where a majority voted for the creation of the National Assembly for Wales, "Welsh" solidified as a marker of distinct nationhood, influencing contemporary English usage to emphasize devolved governance and biculturalism within the UK.

Welsh Identity and Society

The Welsh People

The Welsh people are an ethnic group primarily associated with Wales, tracing their origins to the ancient Britons, the Celtic-speaking inhabitants of Britain during the Iron Age and Roman periods. Genetic studies indicate significant continuity between modern Welsh populations and these ancient groups, with analyses of Y-chromosome haplogroups revealing that Iron Age British lineages, such as those predominant in western Britain, persist at high frequencies among contemporary Welsh men, supporting minimal large-scale genetic replacement by later migrations.^[9] This genetic profile underscores the Welsh as one of the most direct descendants of pre-Roman Britons in the British Isles. Historically, the Welsh identity coalesced through a series of medieval kingdoms that resisted Anglo-Saxon and Norman incursions, including the prominent principalities of Gwynedd in the northwest and Powys in the east-central region. These realms, along with others like Deheubarth, formed the basis of Welsh political organization from the early Middle Ages, often uniting under powerful rulers to defend against English expansion. A pivotal moment in this unification came during the early 15th-century rebellion led by Owain Glyndŵr, who proclaimed himself Prince of Wales in 1400 and rallied disparate Welsh forces in a widespread uprising against English rule, achieving temporary control over much of Wales before the revolt's suppression around 1415.^[10]^[11] Central to Welsh national symbolism is Y Ddraig Goch, the red dragon, rooted in 5th-century legends recounted in early Welsh texts like the Historia Brittonum, where it represents the Britons in a prophetic battle against invading Saxons symbolized by a white dragon. This emblem, evoking ancient myths of resistance and sovereignty, was officially incorporated into the Welsh flag in 1959, replacing earlier designs and solidifying its role as a marker of distinct Welsh heritage.^[12] The Welsh maintain a unique national identity distinct from that of the English, Scottish, or Irish, emphasizing their Celtic roots and historical autonomy within the United Kingdom. According to the 2021 Census for Wales, 55.2% of the 3.1 million residents—approximately 1.7 million people—identified solely as Welsh by national identity, reflecting a strong sense of self-perception tied to cultural and historical continuity, including the enduring role of the Welsh language in fostering this cohesion.^[13]

Demographics and Modern Identity

The 2021 UK Census recorded the population of Wales as 3,107,494, representing the core of contemporary Welsh demographics. Among these residents, 1,951,000 (63.3%) identified with a Welsh national identity, comprising 1,700,000 (55.2%) who selected "Welsh only" and 251,000 (8.1%) who chose "Welsh and British" in combination with no other identities. This marks a slight decline in exclusive Welsh identification from 57.5% in 2011, reflecting broader trends in dual or multiple national affiliations within the UK.^[13]^[14] Beyond Wales, migration patterns have shaped a substantial diaspora, with over 500,000 individuals of Welsh birth or descent residing in England, primarily in border regions like the West Midlands and Northwest. The historic Welsh settlement in Patagonia, Argentina—initiated in 1865 by 153 pioneers seeking a cultural haven—sustains a community of approximately 5,000 Welsh speakers among 50,000 descendants in Chubut Province, where bilingual signage and annual eisteddfodau preserve ties to Wales. In the United States, self-identified Welsh Americans number around 1.8 million, concentrated in states like Pennsylvania and Ohio, though active cultural engagement varies. These global communities highlight ongoing migration driven by economic opportunities and historical ties, with recent data indicating net inward migration to Wales offsetting some outflows to England.^[15]^[16] Modern Welsh identity has evolved amid political shifts, with 55.2% of Wales' population affirming an exclusive Welsh affiliation in the 2021 Census, a figure influenced by the 2014 Scottish independence referendum—which prompted debates on devolution—and the 2016 Brexit vote, which amplified sentiments of distinctiveness from the UK mainstream. Surveys post-Brexit have revealed heightened awareness of Welsh sovereignty amid economic uncertainties. This sense of "Welshness" increasingly encompasses civic elements like support for the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) rather than solely ethnic or linguistic ties. Among younger generations, bilingualism in Welsh and English is promoted through mandatory Welsh-language education in schools since the 1990s, though challenges persist. The 2021 Census indicated 34.3% of children aged 3–15 could speak Welsh, down from 40.3% in 2011, with daily usage more prevalent in rural areas.^[1] As of the year ending June 2025, the Annual Population Survey estimated 27.2% of people aged three and over in Wales could speak Welsh.^[17] Despite these efforts, challenges persist through urbanization, which concentrates 70% of the population in southeast Wales' English-influenced conurbations, fostering assimilation and diluting traditional identities. The post-2020 COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these dynamics, with remote work and travel restrictions temporarily boosting local community bonds but also accelerating out-migration from rural areas, though comprehensive data on long-term identity shifts remains limited.

Language and Culture

The Welsh Language

Welsh (Cymraeg) is a Brythonic Celtic language spoken primarily in Wales, belonging to the Insular Celtic branch of the Indo-European language family. It descends from Common Brittonic, the ancient language of the Britons, and is closely related to Cornish and Breton, though it has diverged significantly over time. According to the 2021 Census conducted by the Office for National Statistics, 538,300 usual residents in Wales aged three and over (17.8% of the population) reported being able to speak Welsh, marking a decline from 562,000 speakers (19.0%) in the 2011 Census; however, this decrease is attributed partly to population growth from non-Welsh-speaking immigration, while the percentage of speakers aged 5-15 decreased from 40.3% in 2011 to 34.3% in 2021, though Welsh-medium immersion schools have helped to mitigate steeper declines in some areas.^[18]^[19]^[20] Recent Annual Population Survey data from the Welsh Government estimates higher figures, with 851,700 Welsh speakers in Wales as of September 2024, reflecting growing usage in education and daily life.^[21]^[22] The historical development of Welsh spans several periods, beginning with Primitive Welsh from the 6th to 8th centuries and evolving into Old Welsh (c. 800–1150), a phase documented in early medieval poetry, glosses, and legal texts such as the Gododdin epic and Juvencus manuscript. This evolved into Middle Welsh around the 12th to 15th centuries, seen in prose collections like the Mabinogion, a series of mythological tales compiled in manuscripts such as the Red Book of Hergest (c. 1382), which preserve pre-Christian Celtic motifs alongside Christian influences. A distinctive grammatical feature of Welsh is its system of initial consonant mutations, where the initial consonant of a word changes based on grammatical context; for example, the word pen ("head") becomes fy mhen ("my head") through soft mutation triggered by the possessive pronoun. This mutation system, inherited from Proto-Celtic, affects nouns, verbs, and adjectives, contributing to the language's analytic yet inflected structure.^[23]^[1]^[24] Efforts to revive and standardize Welsh gained momentum in the 20th century amid concerns over its decline under English dominance. The Welsh Language Act 1967 established Welsh as an official language in courts and allowed its use in public administration, while the Welsh Language Act 1993 created the Welsh Language Board to promote its status and introduced a presumption of equal validity with English in legal proceedings. Building on these, the Welsh Language Measure 2011 imposed language standards on public bodies, requiring active promotion of Welsh. In 2025, the Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Act further strengthened these measures by mandating bilingual public services, setting a national target of one million Welsh speakers by 2050, and expanding Welsh-medium education to ensure all school leavers become confident users.^[25] Welsh exhibits regional dialects, broadly divided into Northern (e.g., in Gwynedd, characterized by preserved vowel sounds and archaic vocabulary) and Southern (e.g., in Cardiff, featuring innovations like vowel shifts and anglicized terms), with a transitional Mid-Welsh variety; these differences are primarily phonological and lexical but mutually intelligible. In the digital era, support for Welsh has advanced with emerging AI translation tools, such as those developed in collaboration with the Welsh Government, though coverage remains limited compared to major languages, with applications like voice translators and text processors gaining traction since 2024 to aid learners and non-speakers.^[26]^[27]

Cultural Expressions and Traditions

Welsh cultural expressions are deeply rooted in traditions that blend oral storytelling, performance arts, and communal rituals, fostering a sense of identity and continuity. The National Eisteddfod of Wales, a cornerstone of these expressions, traces its origins to 1176 when Lord Rhys ap Gruffydd hosted the first recorded eisteddfod at Cardigan Castle, inviting poets and musicians to compete in poetry and song.^[28] This event revived in the 19th century through the formal association of the Gorsedd of the Bards, a ceremonial body that emphasizes Welsh literary and musical heritage, beginning around the early 1800s.^[29] Central to the modern Eisteddfod are bardic titles such as the Archdruid, the elected head of the Gorsedd who presides over key ceremonies, including the crowning of winning poets and the awarding of honors like the Chair and Crown for outstanding literary works.^[30] Held annually and alternating between northern and southern Wales, the festival in 2025 took place in Wrexham from August 2 to 9, drawing over 150,000 attendees to celebrate language, arts, and sustainability initiatives amid broader cultural discussions on environmental preservation.^[31] Literature forms another vital thread in Welsh cultural fabric, spanning medieval innovation to contemporary narratives. Dafydd ap Gwilym, a 14th-century poet active around 1315–1370, is hailed as one of the greatest figures in Welsh literary history for his cywydd poems that introduced themes of love, nature, and satire into a traditionally formal poetic tradition, producing over 150 works that influenced European medieval verse.^[32] In the 20th century, Dylan Thomas advanced this legacy with Under Milk Wood, a radio drama first broadcast in 1954 that vividly portrays life in a fictional Welsh seaside village through lyrical prose and voices, capturing the humor and melancholy of everyday existence.^[33] Contemporary authors like Owen Sheers, born in 1974, continue this evolution as a poet, novelist, and playwright whose works, such as Skirrid Hill (2005), explore Welsh landscapes, identity, and history with a modern sensibility, earning awards like the Somerset Maugham Prize.^[34] Music and folklore further enrich Welsh traditions, with the harp serving as the national instrument since at least the 11th century, its triple-strung design symbolizing ancient Celtic heritage and played at courts and gatherings to accompany poetry and dance.^[35] Male voice choirs, emerging from late 19th-century mining communities in the industrial valleys, represent communal resilience; the Treorchy Male Choir, founded in 1883 in a local pub, gained international acclaim for its powerful renditions of hymns, folk songs, and anthems, performing at events like the National Eisteddfod and touring globally to preserve this vocal tradition.^[36] Folklore, preserved in medieval tales, underscores mythic elements, notably in Culhwch ac Olwen (c. 11th century), the oldest extant Arthurian narrative where King Arthur appears as a heroic leader aiding the protagonist in quests against giants and beasts, establishing Welsh roots for the legendary figure in epic-heroic contexts rather than later chivalric romances.^[37] Symbols and cuisine embody everyday cultural practices, with the leek and daffodil adopted as emblems of Welsh identity—the leek linked to St. David's legendary battle guidance in the 6th century, worn on March 1 (St. David's Day), and the daffodil, or "Peter's leek" in Welsh, emerging as a floral counterpart due to linguistic similarities and spring symbolism.^[38] Traditional dishes like bara brith, a "speckled bread" fruit loaf infused with tea, dried fruits, and spices, reflect resourceful home baking from the 19th century onward, often served sliced with butter as a teatime staple.^[39] In diaspora communities during the 2020s, emerging fusion trends blend these elements with global influences, such as Welsh-Asian hybrids incorporating bara brith into desserts or leek-infused street foods, though documentation remains nascent amid broader multicultural culinary evolutions.^[40]

Geography and Locations

Places in Wales

Wales encompasses a diverse array of geographical features and settlements that embody its historical and cultural identity. The country is divided into principal areas, with major urban centers serving as economic and administrative hubs. Cardiff, the capital city since its official designation by the UK government on December 20, 1955, is located in the southeast and had a population of 362,400 according to the 2021 census.^[41]^[42] As the principal city, it hosts key institutions such as the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) and the National Museum Cardiff, driving commerce and tourism. Swansea, in the southwest, is the second-largest city with a 2021 population of 238,500, known for its maritime heritage and as a gateway to the Gower Peninsula.^[43] Newport, further east along the M4 corridor, recorded 159,600 residents in 2021 and functions as an industrial and port city, supporting logistics and manufacturing in the region.^[44] Historical sites underscore Wales's medieval past and Norman influences. Caernarfon Castle, constructed starting in 1283 under King Edward I as part of his conquest of Wales, exemplifies Edwardian architecture with its grand scale and symbolic design intended to project English authority.^[45] It forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd," designated in 1986 for its outstanding universal value in illustrating 13th-century military architecture.^[45] The castle's location on the Menai Strait facilitated control over northern Wales, and it remains a key venue for ceremonial events, including investitures of the Prince of Wales. Natural features highlight Wales's rugged landscapes and biodiversity. Eryri National Park, formerly known as Snowdonia, covers 823 square miles in the northwest and was officially renamed in Welsh as Eryri by the park authority in November 2022 to prioritize indigenous language usage and cultural significance.^[46] Home to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Wales's highest peak at 1,085 meters, it attracts over 2 million visitors annually for hiking and wildlife observation. In the south, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, rebranded from Brecon Beacons in April 2023, spans 519 square miles of moorlands and waterfalls, with the name change emphasizing Welsh linguistic heritage amid efforts to address climate challenges like carbon sequestration.^[47] These parks represent about 20% of Wales's land area and are vital for conservation, protecting species such as the red kite and pine marten. Wales divides geographically into North Wales (Cymru Gogledd) and South Wales, each with distinct identities shaped by history and economy. North Wales features mountainous terrain and slate-quarrying heritage, centered around areas like Gwynedd and Conwy, fostering a strong cultural ties to Welsh language and traditions. South Wales, conversely, developed as an industrial heartland during the 19th-century coal and iron booms, with valleys like Rhondda and Cynon supporting heavy industry and dense populations that peaked at over 1.1 million in the early 20th century. In 2025, enhancements to the South Wales Metro project, including the rollout of new electric trains on lines such as Coryton and Penarth, have improved connectivity across the valleys, reducing journey times and supporting economic regeneration with services extending to key towns by late 2025.^[48] Recent environmental pressures, particularly from climate change, affect coastal locations. Aberystwyth, a university town on Cardigan Bay with a population of around 18,000, faces increasing risks from rising sea levels projected to reach 1 meter by 2100, exacerbating erosion and flooding that threaten infrastructure and historic promenades.^[49] Ongoing coastal defense schemes, funded through Welsh government programs, aim to protect approximately 460 properties by reinforcing sea walls and dunes, reflecting broader vulnerabilities in Welsh seaside communities amid intensified storms.^[50]

Places Named Welsh Outside Wales

The Welsh Hills, an unincorporated community in Licking County, Ohio, United States, was settled by Welsh immigrants in the early 19th century, marking one of the pioneering Welsh enclaves in America. In 1801, families including Theophilus Rees and Thomas Philipps arrived, drawn by the region's fertile valleys, abundant timber, and natural springs, establishing farms, schools, and churches that fostered a tight-knit society. By the time of the American Civil War, the Welsh population in the area had grown to around 330 individuals, contributing to local agriculture and community development while maintaining elements of Welsh heritage.^[51]^[52] Welsh, a town in Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana, United States, was incorporated in 1888 and derives its name from early settler Henry Welsh, son of Miles Welsh, who relocated from New Orleans to the area in the late 19th century. The community originated as an agricultural hub, with the first town council formed under Mayor Henry Welsh, and it expanded with infrastructure like sidewalks by 1898; a devastating fire in 1910 destroyed much of the downtown, but residents rebuilt with support from the Southern Pacific Railroad. As of 2025, the population stands at approximately 3,261, reflecting a blend of rural traditions in rice and cattle production amid Louisiana's broader cultural landscape.^[53]^[54] In Patagonia, Argentina, the settlement of Gaiman in Chubut Province serves as a focal point for Y Wladfa, the historic Welsh colony founded in 1865 when 153 immigrants arrived aboard the Mimosa to create a refuge for preserving the Welsh language and customs away from Anglicization pressures in Britain. The pioneers constructed irrigation systems along the Chubut River to transform arid land into farmland, establishing chapels, schools, and cultural institutions; today, the region hosts an annual Eisteddfod festival, a competitive arts event rooted in Welsh tradition and revitalized following the 1965 centenary, with an estimated 5,000 Welsh speakers across Chubut. Although Gaiman itself draws its name from indigenous Tehuelche origins, nearby locales like Trelew ("town of Lew," after a settler) exemplify the direct linguistic imprint of Welsh migration.^[55]^[56] Smaller communities bearing the name "Welsh" also exist elsewhere, such as the unincorporated Welsh in Montgomery County, Arkansas, a rural locale along U.S. Route 70 with ties to the state's agricultural past, though details on its founding remain sparse. Similarly, another Welsh in Ohio underscores the scattered echoes of personal or ethnic naming conventions in American toponymy, often unlinked to direct Welsh national migration.

Other Denotations

Biological and Culinary Uses

The Welsh onion (Allium fistulosum), also known as the bunching onion or Japanese bunching onion, is a perennial plant in the Allium genus, characterized by its hollow, tube-like leaves and scallion-like pseudostems that do not form a bulb. Native to southwestern Asia and widely cultivated in China and other parts of East Asia for over 2,000 years, it is valued for its mild, onion-flavored greens used in salads, stir-fries, and garnishes. The name "Welsh" derives from the Old English term welesc, meaning "foreign" or "non-native," reflecting its introduction to Europe as an exotic species rather than any connection to Wales; this etymology traces back to Germanic roots like walsch, used for non-Germanic peoples or imports. Despite occasional historical confusion with leeks (Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum)—another allium associated with Welsh symbolism—the plant's nomenclature solidified in English horticultural texts by the 17th century, distinguishing it as a distinct, non-bulbing variety.^[57]^[58] The Welsh corgi encompasses two distinct herding dog breeds originating from Wales: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, both developed over centuries for driving cattle on small farms in the region's hilly terrain. The Pembroke, with its shorter tail (often docked) and fox-like ears, emerged from local Welsh stock possibly influenced by Scandinavian spitz-type dogs brought by Viking settlers around the 10th century, while the Cardigan, featuring a longer tail and rounded ears, traces its lineage to the Teckel family, akin to the Dachshund, introduced by Celtic tribes over 3,000 years ago. The Cardigan variety nearly faced extinction in the early 20th century due to crossbreeding with Pembrokes and declining rural populations, with registrations dropping to critically low numbers by the 1910s; its revival began after the breeds were officially separated by The Kennel Club in 1934, followed by post-World War II efforts that stabilized the population through dedicated breeding programs. The Pembroke gained global fame through Queen Elizabeth II, who owned over 30 of the breed during her reign, starting with her first corgi, Dookie, in 1933, which significantly boosted registrations and cultural popularity worldwide. Both breeds face ongoing health concerns identified in genetic studies, including degenerative myelopathy (DM) in Pembrokes—a progressive spinal cord disorder linked to a SOD1 gene mutation—and hip dysplasia in Cardigans (with a reported prevalence of around 19-20% in some populations), prompting calls for expanded genomic screening to mitigate these inherited conditions.^[59]^[60]^[61]^[62]^[63] Welsh black cattle, a hardy dual-purpose breed native to Wales since medieval times, represent another biological denomination tied to the region, prized for their resilience in upland grazing and flavorful, grass-fed beef. In 2025, sustainable farming initiatives have emphasized regenerative practices for this breed, such as rotational grazing and reduced chemical inputs, exemplified by award-winning operations like Dolaugwyn Farm in Gwynedd, which integrate Welsh blacks into mixed livestock systems to enhance soil health and biodiversity under Wales' Sustainable Farming Scheme.^[64]^[65] In Welsh culinary traditions, "Welsh" denotes specific dishes that highlight simple, hearty ingredients reflective of rural heritage. Welsh rarebit, a savory dish of melted cheese—typically Cheddar—poured over toasted bread and often flavored with ale, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce, originated in 18th-century England as a working-class meal but became associated with Wales through its jocular original name, "Welsh rabbit," first recorded in 1725; the term played on the irony of poor Welsh people aspiring to rabbit (a luxury game meat) via an affordable substitute, later softened to "rarebit" to clarify the absence of any rabbit. Cawl, considered Wales' national dish, is a slow-cooked lamb or mutton stew featuring leeks, potatoes, carrots, and other root vegetables, with roots tracing to medieval times when it was prepared in a single pot over an open fire for laborers; its name derives from the Latin caulis for cabbage, evolving to encompass this broth-based one-pot meal symbolizing communal sustenance.^[66]^[67]

Names, Media, and Miscellaneous

The surname Welsh derives from the Old English term wealas, denoting "foreigner" or specifically referring to the Celtic Britons or people from Wales, and it emerged as an ethnic identifier in medieval England, Scotland, and Ireland for individuals associated with Wales or the Welsh language.^[68] This origin reflects historical Anglo-Saxon usage where wealas distinguished non-Germanic speakers, evolving into a hereditary surname by the 12th century.^[69] Notable bearers include Matthew E. Welsh, who served as the 41st Governor of Indiana from 1961 to 1965, focusing on civil rights and education reforms during his tenure. Another prominent figure is Kenneth Welsh, a Canadian stage and screen actor (1942–2022) recognized for over 300 performances, including roles in The Day After Tomorrow (2004) and The Score (2001). In media, "Welsh" appears in niche productions and sports contexts, such as the 2014 short film Boxcars, which explores themes of personal tragedy and navigation through loss, directed by Matt MacDonald and featuring actor Ryan Patrick Welsh in a supporting role.^[70] Additionally, Welsh cycling initiatives gained visibility in the early 2010s; Team SWI Welsh Cycling, a national track squad, competed in the 2012–2013 UCI Track Cycling World Cup series, securing medals like silver in the women's team pursuit at the Cali event.^[71] This team represented Wales in international competitions, highlighting emerging talent in the sport.^[72] Miscellaneous uses of "Welsh" encompass traditional crafts and modern digital applications. The Welsh dresser, a distinctive oak furniture piece originating in the late 17th century, functions as a combined cupboard and display unit for crockery and utensils, typically featuring an open shelved upper section over enclosed lower storage, and was essential in rural Welsh households for food preparation and storage near open fires.^[73] Crafted from local oak by joiners in Wales and neighboring regions, it evolved from utilitarian designs to more ornate forms by the 18th century, with examples often including plate racks and molded cornices.^[74] In contemporary contexts, "Welsh" denotes esports entities; Esports Wales, established as the national governing body, fields competitive teams in titles like Counter-Strike, Rocket League, and DOTA 2, participating in international events such as the 2022 Commonwealth Esports Championships and managing the Welsh Esports League since 2019.^[75] By 2025, these teams have expanded to include women's divisions and university partnerships, promoting competitive gaming as a platform for Welsh identity in digital media.^[76]

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A guide to the revolt of Owain Glyndwr who was proclaimed Prince of Wales in 1400, written by historian Dr John Davies.
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Wales history: Why is the red dragon on the Welsh flag? - BBC
Jul 6, 2019 · "The Romans used the dragon as a war emblem and it is believed that they had a military flag called the draco, which was a piece of cloth on a ...
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Ethnic group, national identity, language and religion in Wales ...
Nov 29, 2022 · 55.2% of the population in Wales (1.7 million) selected a “Welsh” only identity in 2021, down from 57.5% (1.8 million) in 2011. 8.1% of the ...
[12]
National identity, England and Wales: Census 2021
Nov 29, 2022 · In 2021, 90.3% (53.8 million) of usual residents identified with at least one UK national identity (English, Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish, ...
[13]
Demography and migration in Wales (Census 2021) [HTML]
Nov 2, 2022 · Out of the estimated 3.1 million usual residents in Wales in 2021, 2.9 million (93.1%) were born in the UK and 215,000 (6.9%) were born outside ...
[14]
Population and household estimates, Wales: Census 2021
Jun 28, 2022 · Over one-fifth (21.3%) of the Welsh population in 2021 (662,000) were aged 65 years and over, up from 18.4% (562,544) in 2011. The size of the ...
[15]
Welsh language by population characteristics (Census 2021) [HTML]
Jun 8, 2023 · In 2021, the percentage of Welsh speakers was at its highest among those who identified with a Welsh only identity (24.8%) and at its lowest ...<|control11|><|separator|>
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Welsh language, Wales: Census 2021 - Office for National Statistics
Dec 6, 2022 · In 2021, an estimated 538,000 usual residents in Wales aged three years and over (17.8%) reported being able to speak Welsh, which is a decrease ...Missing: history dialects sources<|control11|><|separator|>
[17]
Welsh speakers by local authority, gender and detailed age groups ...
In the 2011 census, 562,016 people were able to speak Welsh, which is 19.0% of the total population.
[18]
2021 Census - Welsh Language Commissioner
The 2021 Census results show that 17.8% of the population in Wales can speak Welsh. That's 538,300 people aged three or older. This is the lowest percentage ...
[19]
Number of Welsh-speakers at lowest in eight years - BBC
Jan 23, 2025 · There were around 851,700 Welsh speakers in Wales in the year ending 30 September 2024, according to the annual population survey - around 1.6% ...
[20]
Welsh language data from the Annual Population Survey - gov.wales
Jan 31, 2024 · According to the APS, there were an estimated 891,800 Welsh speakers living in Wales in the year ending 30 September 2023. The number of Welsh ...
[21]
Brythonic languages | Celtic, Welsh & Cornish - Britannica
The Brythonic languages (from Welsh brython, “Briton”) are or were spoken on the island of Great Britain and consist of Welsh, Cornish, and Breton.
[22]
BBC Wales - History - Themes - Myths and legends - The Mabinogion
It first came to general literary prominence in the mid 19th century, when Lady Charlotte Guest published her translation of 11 medieval Welsh folk tales under ...
[23]
Welsh Language and Education (Wales) Act 2025 - Legislation.gov.uk
An Act of Senedd Cymru to promote and facilitate use of the Welsh language, including by setting a target to increase the number of speakers to at least 1 ...
[24]
Welsh language technology and AI: updates | GOV.WALES
Sep 3, 2025 · We updated and expanded our Helo Blod list of Welsh Language technology tools and resources. It now includes a dedication section for parents ...
[25]
'Historic' bill to boost Welsh learners passed in Senedd - BBC
May 14, 2025 · A bill which aims to ensure all pupils in Wales finish school as "independent Welsh language users" has been passed in the Senedd.<|control11|><|separator|>
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The National Eisteddfod of Wales - Historic UK
The National Eisteddfod of Wales dates back to 1176 when it is said that the first Eisteddfod was held. Lord Rhys invited poets and musicians from all over ...Missing: titles | Show results with:titles
[27]
Find out more about the druids and the gorsedd rituals - BBC
Jul 29, 2024 · The Gorsedd of the Bards first became officially associated with the Eisteddfod at the beginning of the 19th century and the link has continued ...
[28]
The Archdruid - BBC
The head of the Gorsedd of the Bards is the Archdruid, who is elected for a term of three years and is responsible for conducting the Gorsedd ceremonies ...
[29]
National Eisteddfod reveals Wrexham site for 2025 – Isycoed
Oct 24, 2024 · They say that the 2025 festival returns to a “traditional agricultural setting”, with the Maes, the caravan site, parking and Maes B situated ...
[30]
Dafydd ap Gwilym | The Poetry Foundation
Prolific 14th-century Welsh poet Dafydd ap Gwilym is considered by many to be one of the greatest Welsh-language poets.
[31]
Under Milk Wood - A Chronology - DylanThomas.com
25 January 1954. First radio broadcast of Under Milk Wood in the UK. Burton is First Voice. 1954. Under Milk Wood published in book form. 13,000 copies are ...
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Biography - Owen Sheers
Owen Sheers is an author, poet and playwright. He has published two poetry collections, The Blue Book and Skirrid Hill which won a Somerset Maugham Award.
[33]
The Welsh harp: our national instrument - Wales.com
It was crowned as the Welsh harp by the antiquarians of the period, its actual history conveniently forgotten. How does the Welsh harp sound, you ask? In a word ...
[34]
Treorchy Male Choir: Home
For over 140 years the Treorchy Male Choir has been recognised as one of the greatest choral ensembles of all time.
[35]
[PDF] The Arthur of 'Culhwch and Olwen' as a figure of epic-heroic tradition
The Welsh tale Culhwch and Olwen is the oldest Arthurian tale that has been preserved in the manuscripts. The extant redaction has been dated.
[36]
National symbols of Wales
National symbols of Wales include the red dragon, daffodil, leek, the Welsh language, and rugby.
[37]
Bara brith: our traditional Welsh recipe - Visit Wales
Bara brith is a rich fruit loaf made with tea. It's delicious when spread with Welsh salted butter. Here's our recipe for this traditional Welsh tea-time treat.Missing: cuisine | Show results with:cuisine
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The new wave of Welsh restaurants redefining our cuisine
Dec 1, 2024 · In an era and a country where global cuisine and fusions foods have long since earned their place, there is surely something to celebrate here.
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https://www.visitwales.com/things-do/food-and-drink/welsh-food-and-recipes/bara-brith-recipe
[40]
Cardiff population change, Census 2021 – ONS
Jun 28, 2022 · Cardiff's population increased by 4.7% from 346,100 in 2011 to 362,400 in 2021, higher than Wales' 1.4% increase.
[41]
Swansea population change, Census 2021 – ONS
Jun 28, 2022 · In Swansea, the population size has decreased by 0.2%, from around 239,000 in 2011 to 238,500 in 2021. The total ...
[42]
Newport population change, Census 2021 – ONS
Jun 28, 2022 · This is higher than the overall increase for Wales (1.4%), where the population grew by 44,000 to 3,107,500.
[43]
Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd
Their construction, begun in 1283 and at times hindered by the Welsh uprisings of Madog ap Llewelyn in 1294, continued until 1330 in Caernarfon and 1331 in ...
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From Snowdonia to Eryri: Why the switch to Welsh matters - BBC
Nov 13, 2024 · Why are Snowdon and Snowdonia no longer the official names? The park authority voted to use Yr Wyddfa, rather than Snowdon, and Eryri, rather ...
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Brecon Beacons national park renamed Bannau Brycheiniog in ...
Apr 17, 2023 · Brecon Beacons national park renamed Bannau Brycheiniog in Welsh language move. National park also ditches fiery logo as it embarks on plan to tackle climate ...
[46]
New electric trains enter service on Coryton and Penarth lines
Sep 29, 2025 · Passengers on the Coryton and Penarth lines are now travelling on brand-new electric trains, following the full rollout of TfW's Class 756 ...
[47]
Aberystwyth Coastal Defence Scheme Consultation - Ceredigion ...
Over time, climate change will increase still water levels by approximately 1m and together with increased storms this means: Approximately 460 properties are ...
[48]
Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Programme 2025 to ...
Mar 28, 2025 · A programme of capital works to reduce the risk of flooding and coastal erosion to communities across Wales.Missing: impacts towns
[49]
A Brief History of The Welsh Hills
In 1796, Welsh families fled to America. In 1801, Theophilus Rees and Thomas Philipps settled in the area that became the Welsh Hills. The Welsh Hills Inn was ...
[50]
History of Granville Township
... hills that still bear the name “Welsh Hills”. The initial trickle of Welsh immigrants was to continue so that by the Civil War, they numbered around 330.
[51]
ABOUT | townofwelsh - Town of Welsh
The history of the community dates back to the late 1800's, when Henry Welsh came to the area as his father, Miles Welsh moved west from New Orleans.Missing: population | Show results with:population
[52]
Welsh, Louisiana Population 2025
Welsh is a town located in Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana. Welsh has a 2025 population of 3,261. Welsh is currently declining at a rate of -0.43% annually ...
[53]
Viewpoint: The Argentines who speak Welsh - BBC News
Oct 16, 2014 · What lessons can be learned from the 150 intrepid Welsh settlers who moved to Argentina in the 19th Century?
[54]
Gaiman: the welsh colony. The ultimate guide | Peninsula Valdes
Apr 3, 2025 · Nestled in Argentina's Chubut Province, Gaiman is a unique town famous for its Welsh heritage, traditional tea houses, and tranquil rural charm.
[55]
Allium fistulosum - Plant Finder - Missouri Botanical Garden
Common name of Welsh onion does not refer to the country of Wales, but is derived from the German word walsch meaning foreign. Problems. Onions are susceptible ...
[56]
https://peninsulavaldes.com/travel-guide/gaiman/gaiman-the-welsh-colony-the-ultimate-guide
[57]
History of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is descended from the Teckel family of dogs which also produced the Dachshund. The breed is believed to have been in existence in ...
[58]
Separating the Breeds - Chesapeake Cardigan Welsh Corgi Club
Historical look at how there came to be two Welsh corgi breeds - the Pembroke and the Cardigan.
[59]
How Queen Elizabeth II Popularized the Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Sep 16, 2022 · Her Majesty's love of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi helped popularize these dogs worldwide. “Without question, she brought attention to the breed,” ...
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https://www.chesapeakecardigans.com/cardigan-information/the-separation-of-the-breeds/
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https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/queen-elizabeth-ii-popularized-pembroke-welsh-corgi/
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Sustainable Farming Scheme: frequently asked questions [HTML]
Oct 29, 2025 · The Sustainable Farming Scheme 2026: scheme description offers a comprehensive overview that should provide farmers with enough detail to ...
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Did Welsh rarebit start as a joke by the English? - BBC
Jun 6, 2025 · She added that many mistakenly think Welsh rarebit contains rabbit because the dish was originally called "Welsh rabbit" in 1725. According to ...
[64]
Cawl Cymreig: A Welsh stew for St David's Day - BBC
Feb 29, 2024 · Said to have originated in the 14th Century in Wales, the unofficial national dish was traditionally simmered in a pot on an open fire and ...
[65]
Welsh Name Meaning and Welsh Family History at FamilySearch
Scottish, English, and Irish: ethnic name from Middle English welshe (Old English wēalisc, wēlisc) 'foreign, Welsh', for someone from Wales or a speaker of the ...
[66]
Welsh Surname Meaning & Welsh Family History at Ancestry.com®
Welsh Surname Meaning. Scottish English and Irish: ethnic name from Middle English welshe (Old English wēalisc wēlisc) 'foreign Welsh' for someone from Wales or ...
[67]
Boxcars (Short 2014) - IMDb
Boxcars: Directed by Matt MacDonald. With Sarah Brandon, Jarred Kjack, Ryan Patrick Welsh. A young woman, tortured by a recent tragedy, attempts to navigate ...
[68]
Team SWI Welsh Cycling launches at Wales National Velodrome
Oct 3, 2012 · Wales' new track cycling team will compete in the 2012/2013 UCI Track World Cup series.Missing: Europe | Show results with:Europe
[69]
UCI Track World Cup Cali - Day 1 - British Cycling
Team SWI Welsh Cycling take their first medal at the UCI Track World Cup, claiming silver in the Women's Team Pursuit Final. They faced Italy in the final, just ...Missing: 2012-2013 | Show results with:2012-2013
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https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3659996/
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A history of kitchen dressers, design ideas and where to buy them
Sep 8, 2022 · 'They were made from oak, elm, pine, walnut or fruitwood,' says Glenn. Many had decorative turned legs connected by stretchers supporting a row ...
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Esports Wales: The national body for esports in Wales
Esports Wales is the national body of esports in Wales and controls the Welsh national esports teams and the Welsh national leagues. It is a member of IESF ...Hub · Who We Are · Esports news · University Esports
[73]
It's in the game: first ever Welsh esports team head to ... - gov.wales
Aug 6, 2022 · The first ever Welsh esports team are heading to the 2022 Commonwealth Games' Esports Championships in Birmingham to compete in the prestigious inaugural main ...<|control11|><|separator|>