I still regularly receive comments asking why I use "Cymru" instead of "Wales

I still regularly receive comments asking why I use "Cymru" instead of "Wales

", even when my content is posted in English. Here's why.
The word "Wales" is intimately linked with the history of the land and its people, but its origin is shrouded in a fascinating linguistic journey that takes us back to a time when it meant "outsider" or "foreigner".
The term "Wales" can be traced back to the Old English word "wælisc," which referred to people who were not of Anglo-Saxon or Old English origin. It was used by the Anglo-Saxons to describe the native Britons who inhabited what is now "Wales" (as well as much of the island of "Great Britain", at the time).

This use of "Wales" as a term for "foreigner" highlights the linguistic diversity that existed in Britain during the early medieval period. The Anglo-Saxons, who spoke Old English, considered the native Britons, who spoke Old Welsh, as outsiders. However, those who spoke Old Welsh were actually not the outsiders, hence the confusion with the meaning of "Wales".

Over time, as the linguistic and cultural distinctions between the Anglo-Saxons and the native Britons lessened, "Wales" evolved to refer specifically to the western part of Britain - the present day country of Wales. It became synonymous with the land and its people, the Welsh.

Today, "Wales" has come to represent a proud nation with a rich cultural heritage and its own language, Cymraeg. While its historical connection to the term "foreigner" may have faded, the word "Wales" now symbolizes the indomitable spirit of a people who celebrate their unique identity. Additionally, there are campaigns within Wales to rename the country to Cymru (most notably in sport, namely the national football team), the Welsh name for the country with a meaning more fit for the country, as it means "fellow countryman". Much better than "outsider"!

The journey of the word "Wales" is a testament to the enduring nature of language and identity. From a term denoting "foreigner" to a symbol of a nation with a rich and vibrant heritage, it reflects the intricate history of a land and its people.

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