62.8k views
4 votes
Complete the sentences. Talk about Wales and the Welsh.

1. Wales is not a big country
8.
and
Welsh
2. In 1984 the miners went on strike for a whole year
3. The mountain railway is four and a half miles long and
4. People visit National Parks
5. No one has a deeper love of his home and family than the Welshman,
6. The love that he has isn't for Wales
1 Until you realise that, you will not understand the character of the
he doesn't generally go far away from his home.
it is for some small parts of Wales, the tiny village, the valley, the
hillside where his family lives.
when the government decided to close more mines.
it is a country of small farms and sheep.
carries visitors to the top of the mountain and back in two and a
half hours.
to go walking, climbing or just to enjoy the beautiful countryside
and the spirit of Wales.
on Sunday a great silence falls over the village.​

User LED Fantom
by
7.5k points

2 Answers

4 votes

Final answer:

Wales is embracing devolution, maintaining strong cultural ties despite economic shifts from coal to tourism. Challenges such as the diminished Welsh language highlight the region's evolution while Welsh nationalism and attachment to local communities persist.

Step-by-step explanation:

Wales is a country with a rich cultural heritage, currently experiencing devolution where it operates with its own parliament in Cardiff. Despite its autonomy in local affairs, Wales remains part of the United Kingdom for national and foreign matters. The welsh economy faced challenges due to the decline of the coal industry, which led to emigration and a stagnation in population growth. As a result, the number of Welsh speakers has diminished. However, Welsh nationalism remains strong and reflects a profound attachment to local roots, including the love for small communities and the natural beauty of its countryside.

To combat economic difficulties, Wales is turning to tourism for income, promoting its scenic highland regions, historic castles, and cultural heritage. The highland region and the decline of industries such as iron-milling have had significant impacts on Welsh society, economy, and the environment. Still, the Welsh language and culture are vigorously preserved, encapsulating the spirit of the region.

User Mark Waterman
by
7.7k points
6 votes

Final answer:

Wales is a culturally rich country with a profound history and a strong connection to its Celtic heritage. Despite economic shifts from coal mining to tourism, the Welsh spirit remains undeterred with a localized sense of pride. Devolution has allowed Wales its own parliament, balancing autonomy with integration in the UK.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding Wales and Welsh Culture

Wales is a country that may not be vast in size, but its cultural depth and history are profound. Notably, devolution has granted Wales a form of autonomy, with its own parliament in Cardiff, though it remains integrated within the United Kingdom for national and international affairs. Still, its local economy has suffered due to industry shifts, especially as coal mining has declined, leading many younger inhabitants to move away in search of employment, consequently depressing population growth and diminishing Welsh language usage.

The Celtic heritage of Wales is expressed in the Welsh language and a robust connection to its highland landscapes, which now serve as a magnet for tourism. Welsh nationalism is characterized by a localized pride, a connection to one's village or valley, rather than an overarching national identity. On Sundays, the silence in these small communities speaks to the sacredness of home and kinship among the Welsh people.

Despite economic challenges, such as those faced by Welsh miners during long strikes, the Welsh spirit remains undeterred. Tourism plays a growing role as highland castles and the natural beauty of the landscape draw visitors. The impact of this transition from a coal-based economy to one focused on tourism is significant, shifting the Welsh economy's reliance on its natural beauty and historical appeal.

In assessing the broader picture of Wales within the United Kingdom, it's essential to acknowledge devolutionary forces, the constitutional monarchy structure, and the cultural differences that exist within the UK. While England may house the seat of government, regions like Wales continue to pursue retaining local heritage and promoting their unique identities.

User Bela Ban
by
7.0k points