Welsh Americans facts for kids
| Total population | |
|---|---|
|
|
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Languages | |
| English, Welsh | |
| Religion | |
| Protestant and Roman Catholic | |
| Related ethnic groups | |
| Breton Americans, Cornish Americans, English Americans, Scottish Americans, Irish Americans, Scotch-Irish Americans, Manx Americans, Welsh Canadians, Welsh Australians |
Welsh Americans are people in the United States who have ancestors from Wales. Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. In 2008, about 1.98 million Americans said they had Welsh family roots. This was about 0.6% of all people in the U.S. This number is interesting because Wales itself only has about 3 million people. Also, about 3.8% of Americans have a Welsh last name.
Contents
Why Welsh People Came to America
Many Welsh people came to America for different reasons. Some were looking for a better life. They wanted new opportunities and land. Others came for religious freedom. They wanted to practice their faith without problems.
Early Settlements
Welsh immigrants started arriving in America very early. Some of the first groups came in the 1600s. They often settled together in certain areas. This helped them keep their culture and language.
Seeking Religious Freedom
One big reason for coming was religion. Many Welsh people were Nonconformists. This meant they did not follow the official Church of England. They faced difficulties in Wales because of their beliefs. America offered them a place where they could worship freely.
New Opportunities and Land
America also offered a chance for a new start. There was a lot of land available. This was very appealing to farmers and families. They hoped to build a better future for themselves. Many also found work in growing industries.
Where Welsh Americans Settled
Welsh immigrants often settled in places that reminded them of home. They also went to areas where there was work. Many found jobs in mining and farming.
Pennsylvania and Ohio
Pennsylvania was a very popular place for Welsh settlers. Many came to work in the coal mines. They helped build the mining industry there. Ohio also attracted many Welsh families. They often settled in farming communities.
Utah and the West
Later, many Welsh people moved west. A large number settled in Utah. They were often members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They helped build new towns and farms in the western states. Other Welsh communities grew in Idaho and Oregon.
Welsh Contributions to America
Welsh Americans have made many important contributions. They helped shape American culture and industry. Their hard work and traditions are still seen today.
Industry and Labor
Many Welsh immigrants were skilled miners. They played a big role in the coal and iron industries. Especially in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Their knowledge helped America grow. They also helped form early labor unions. These unions worked for better conditions for workers.
Culture and Heritage
Welsh Americans have kept many of their traditions alive. They celebrate Welsh holidays. They also hold cultural events called Eisteddfodau. These events feature music, poetry, and singing. The Welsh language is still spoken by some families.
Famous Welsh Americans
Many famous Americans have Welsh roots. These include presidents, artists, and scientists. For example, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln had Welsh ancestry. This shows the wide impact Welsh Americans have had.
Images for kids
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An 1841 poster advertising passage to America, written in English and Welsh
See also
In Spanish: Inmigración galesa en los Estados Unidos para niños
