Pan-Celticism
The existence of the Celtic nations and how they embrace their inherent culture gave rise to Pan-Celticism. In the 13th century, the Scottish elite class claims and boasts about their Gaelic-Irish ancestry. The Scottish king, Robert the Bruce, later on declared the common characteristics of Irish and Scottish which both belong to the Celtic nations. But then again, because of alliance with England and conversion to Protestantism, Scotland maintained political power and was declared one of the wealthiest lands in 1840's while Ireland remained economical feeble.
Pan-celticism can be displayed and upheld through several means. On top of the list is by using the Celtic language. There are organizations that promote the linguistic influence of the Celts, specially the Gaelic and Brythonic languages. In Wales, Brittany and Cornwall, there was even a Columba Initiative to actively promote the Celtic language. Pan-Celticism also gave rise to the Celtic Congress in order to cultivate cultural contacts among the Celtic nations and around the globe.
Music can also be influenced by Pan-Celticism. The modern Inter-Celtic festivals are very extravagant. A lot of people love these cultural shows. Events that are worth noting are the festivals on Lorient and of course Glasgow's famous Celtic Connection. Sports can also have a reflection of Pan-Celticism, as shown in Hurling and Shinty sports international. The Celtic league and Rugby Union also created their own following. You can catch Brittany and Cornwall in wrestling matches as well.
In the political era, the Celtic League was created mainly to uphold the ties and the cultural beauty of the Celtic nations. The Celtic League is the basic and primary Pan-Celtic political group. They created a federation among the Celtic states and discuss political ventures and implemented political visits. The Celtic Congress and the Celtic Leagues recognize six countries as part of the Celtic nations including Brittany, Scotland, Isle of Man, Cornwall, Wales and Ireland.
Original Authors:
Jennifer Tumanda
Edit Update Authors: RPN
Updated On: 16/01/2007
