Cornish people

File:Britain and language

Cornish people are an ethnic group native to Cornwall, a county in the southwest of England, within the United Kingdom. The Cornish identity has its roots in the ancient Britons who inhabited southern and central Great Britain before the Roman conquest, and Cornwall has retained a distinct cultural identity that reflects its history. This includes its own language, Cornish, which experienced a revival in the 20th century after falling out of common use in the 18th century.

History

The history of the Cornish people is intertwined with the Celtic history of Britain. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Cornwall maintained a degree of autonomy within the early medieval kingdom of Dumnonia but gradually became anglicized and was incorporated into the Kingdom of England by the end of the 11th century. Despite this, the Cornish people maintained a distinct cultural identity, language, and traditions.

Language

The Cornish language is a Celtic language closely related to Breton and Welsh. It was the dominant language in Cornwall until the late Middle Ages when Middle English began to take over. The language saw a revival in the 20th century and is now taught in some schools and used in religious and civic ceremonies as a symbol of Cornish identity.

Culture

Cornish culture is rich in folklore, music, dance, and cuisine. The Cornwall region is known for its traditional folk music, dances, and festivals such as St Piran's Day, which celebrates the patron saint of Cornwall. Cornish cuisine is noted for its pasties, a type of meat and vegetable pie that has gained popularity across the United Kingdom.

Political Recognition

In 2014, the Cornish were officially recognized as a national minority in the United Kingdom, which means they are afforded the same protections as other Celtic groups in the UK, such as the Scots, Welsh, and Irish. This recognition was a significant milestone for Cornish nationalists, who have long campaigned for greater autonomy and recognition of the unique Cornish culture and identity.

Modern Cornish Identity

Today, the Cornish identity is celebrated in Cornwall and by the Cornish diaspora around the world. There is a growing interest in the Cornish language and heritage, with many people seeking to learn more about their Cornish roots. The Cornish flag, a white cross on a black background, is a common sight in Cornwall and wherever Cornish communities are found.

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