Why did the Welsh emigrate?

Welsh people emigrated primarily due to economic hardship in Wales, particularly during the 19th century, seeking better opportunities for work and land ownership in other countries, often heading to the United States where they could utilize their industrial skills in industries like coal mining, steel production, and slate quarrying; many also left to escape the poverty and limited land availability in their homeland, where most land was owned by a small elite class.

Key factors contributing to Welsh emigration:

Industrial decline:

Fluctuations in the coal and steel industries led to unreliable employment for many Welsh workers.

Land ownership issues:

Most land in Wales was owned by a wealthy few, leaving many tenant farmers with limited options.

Low wages:

Poor working conditions and low pay in Wales pushed people to seek better opportunities abroad.

Religious persecution:

In earlier centuries, some Welsh people also emigrated due to religious persecution.

Where did Welsh people emigrate to?

United States:

Many Welsh immigrants settled in regions like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Wisconsin, where they often established communities based on their shared heritage.

Patagonia, Argentina:

A notable example of Welsh emigration was the establishment of a Welsh colony in Patagonia, Argentina, where a small Welsh-speaking population still exists today.