Based on historical research and debates about Wales and Welshness, this volume offers an authoritative and accessible account of the period from Neanderthal times to the opening of the Senedd, the home of the National Assembly for Wales, in 2006. Within a remarkably brief and stimulating compass, Geraint H. Jenkins explores the emergence of Wales as a nation, its changing identities and values, and the transformations its people experienced and survived throughout the centuries. In the face of seemingly overwhelming odds, the Welsh never reconciled themselves to political, social and cultural subordination, and developed ingenious ways of maintaining a distinctive sense of their otherness. The book ends with the coming of political devolution and the emergence of a greater measure of cultural pluralism. Professor Jenkins's lavishly illustrated volume provides enthralling material for scholars, students, general readers, and travellers to Wales.

This volume presents an accessible account of Wales from Neanderthal times to the present. Geraint Jenkins explores the emergence of Wales as a nation, and its changing identities and values. This beautifully illustrated guide will appeal to students, general readers, and travellers to Wales.

Preface; 1. The earliest inhabitants; 2. The heroic age 383-1063; 3. The Anglo-Norman conquerors c.1063-1282; 4. Pestilence, rebellion and renewal c.1283-1536; 5. Early modern Wales, 1536-1776; 6. A crucible of the modern world 1776-1900; 7. Wales awakening? 1901-2006; 8. Whither Wales?; Sources of quotations; Guide to further reading; Index.