The Long and short distance emigrations of the Welsh

Abstract

The 19th century was to a degree marked by migrations. The Welsh migrated seeking a livelihood also, but it were some patriotic grounds (not poverty) that triggered the most famous 19th century’s Welsh migration enterprise. Unwilling to live in the shade of England any more, a group of the Welsh left the British Islands with the purpose of building a “little Wales beyond Wales.” This colony was meant to preserve a far-advanced autonomy, and the mother language to occupy a position considerably higher than that in the United Kingdom. That the Welsh culture may thrive, Patagonia was chosen, which — contrary to America — was free from the overweening influence of England. The article is an attempt to survey those patriotic motives of the Patagonia Journey, the attitude of the Welsh towards their identity, language and culture, and towards the neighboring England. The personality of the journey’s idea-giver is being sketched, the ups and downs of the colony, and the development of Welsh traditions in today’s Patagonia.