| |
UK History - Wales
In the two centuries following the Norman invasion of England in
1066, the Anglo-Norman regime gradually spread to Wales, in spite
of Welsh attempts to secure their land as an independent state.
In 1400 the last armed rebellion by the Welsh, led by Owain Glyn
Dwr, was crushed by Henry IV, whose punishments left bitter feelings
for many years. In 1536 England and Wales were formally united.
Although the Welsh retained their language, culture, and a strong
sense of identity, English gradually became the official language.
The Industrial Revolution brought dramatic changes to Wales: coal,
copper, slate, and tin production led to the growth in urbanised
industrial centres, and a huge population increase. There has been
a major revival of Welsh language and culture in the twentieth century,
and in many parts of the country Welsh is spoken as the first language.
Plaid Cymru, the Welsh National Party, was formed in 1925, Cardiff
was made the official capital in 1955, and Wales introduced its
first Welsh-language television channel in 1982. In 1999 the Welsh
National Assembly was established, giving Wales more control in
the running of its affairs.
Find out more about: England
|| Scotland || Northern Ireland
Introduction
|| History
|| Geography &
Environment
People & Society
|| Factfile || Oxfam
in the UK
|
