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Wales (aka Cymru)

Wales (aka Cymru)

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 Episode 3: Wales (aka Cymru) Summary: What to expect in this episode: This episode begins with some facts about Wales, followed by a summary of the country's history. Then follows a more detailed journey through Wales’ history, which ends with the modern times and The Welsh Government. Furthermore, tourism today is described, and it concludes with a summary of nine travel tips and attractions in Wales. Finally, it is revealed which destination in Wales we will dive into in the next episode of this podcast series. This episode is dedicated to my youngest daughter, Josephine. Facts about Wales: Wales is a country located in the western part of Great Britain, bordered by England to the east, the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea to the west, and the Bristol Channel to the south. Wales is a part of both the United Kingdom (aka UK) and Great Britain. The United Kingdom is a political union made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Together, these countries form a sovereign state, with a shared system of governance and a monarch as the head of state. On the other hand, Great Britain is a geographical term that refers to the largest island in the British Isles, which includes England, Scotland, and Wales. Area: The total area of Wales is 20,735 km² (aka 8,023 square miles). Population: Wales had a population of around 3.1 million people in 2021. Capital: Cardiff is the capital and the largest city in Wales, with a population of 362,310 in 2021. Languages: Welsh (aka Cymraeg) and English are de jure official languages of the Welsh Parliament, the Senedd. Welsh is spoken by about 20% of the population, and is more commonly spoken in the north and west of the country. Currency: The currency used in Wales is the pound sterling (abbreviated as GBP). Like the rest of the United Kingdom, the currency is divided into pounds (£) and pence (p). The notes used are £5, £10, £20, and £50. The coins used are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50, £1, and £2. --- Summary: Historical timeline of Wales: Wales has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to prehistoric times. The country is known for its Celtic roots, which have contributed to its unique language, culture, and traditions. Over the centuries, Wales has faced many challenges, such as invasions from the Romans and Normans. Despite these obstacles, Wales has managed to maintain its identity through its literature, music, and art. During the Middle Ages, Wales experienced a tumultuous history. In the early part of this era, Wales was divided into small kingdoms that were frequently at war with each other. However, in 1282, King Edward I of England conquered Wales and established English rule over the country. Today, Wales is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant cities like Cardiff and Swansea. Yet Wales is also celebrated for producing some of the world's most talented actors, musicians, poets, and writers, like Dylan Thomas (1914-1953) and Richard Walter Jenkins Junior, aka Richard Burton (1925-1984). The legacy of Welsh culture can be felt far beyond the borders of this small country, with Welsh communities thriving in places like Patagonia, in Argentina. By preserving their native language (aka Cymraeg) alongside English as an official language in Wales since 1993, future generations will be able to celebrate their cultural heritage for years to come. The legacy of Wales will continue to inspire people around the world as a rich tapestry woven by old myths mixed with modern innovation! In the following, the history of Wales is told in a more detailed version. --- Prehistoric Times: Wales has a long history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to 230,000 BCE, according to archaeological sites. Neanderthals and Homo sapiens were prevalent during the prehistoric era in Wales. These early human populations were hunters and gatherers who left behind tools, weapons, and cave paintings as a record of their presence. Invading Celtic tribes from central Europe introduced new knowledge of agriculture, trade, and bronze-working during the Bronze Age. The Celtic Britons lived in Wales until the Romans began conquering the country in 43 CE. Wales, which was a part of Roman Britannia, became a centre for the lead, copper, silver, and gold industries. The Romans also built roads that connected Wales to other parts of Britain. After Rome was overthrown in 410 CE, Germanic tribes like the Angles and Saxons entered Wales and established their kingdoms in England. --- Medieval Times: During the Middle Ages, Wales experienced a tumultuous history. In the early part of this era, Wales was divided into small kingdoms that were frequently at war with each other. However, in 1282, King Edward I of England conquered Wales and established English rule over the country. Despite this, Welsh identity remained strong, and rebellions against English rule were frequent throughout ...
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