book we are the romani people

we are the romani people book by ian hancock

explore the rich and often misunderstood history and culture of the romani people through ian hancocks seminal work, "we are the romani people." this insightful book offers a profound look into a community that has navigated centuries of prejudice, exclusion, and resilience. it serves as a vital resource for understanding the romani identity from their own perspective, shedding light on their origins, societal contributions, and enduring spirit. discover the complexities of their journey and gain a deeper appreciation for this significant global population.

we are the romani people summary

in "we are the romani people," ian hancock meticulously details the romani journey from their ancient roots in india to their widespread presence across the globe today. the book critically examines the historical narrative of the romani people, often overshadowed by external perceptions and stereotypes. hancock addresses key aspects of romani life, including their unique language, diverse cultural practices, societal structures, and the pervasive issue of antigypsyism that has historically marginalized them. he provides a compelling overview of their struggles, from periods of enslavement in eastern europe to the devastating impact of the holocaust, known as the porajmos. this work is more than just a historical account; it is a self-statement that aims to empower the romani community and educate outsiders, fostering a more accurate and empathetic understanding. it highlights their resilience and their ongoing efforts to maintain their identity and achieve recognition and respect in the modern world.

1. full book name : we are the romani people
2. author name : ian hancock
3. genre : nonfiction, history, anthropology, cultural studies, sociology, academic
4. page count : 208 pages
5. isbn : 9781902806198
6. asin : not explicitly found in search results, typically applies to amazon kindle editions.
7. edition language : english
8. date of publication : september 2002

about the author ian hancock

ian hancock is a globally recognized linguist, romani scholar, and dedicated advocate for romani rights. born in london to romani parents, he has become a leading authority on romani language, history, and culture. hancock holds multiple doctorates and has had a distinguished academic career, most notably as a professor at the university of texas at austin, where he directs the romani archives and documentation center. his prolific work includes over 350 publications, and he has represented the romani people at the united nations and served on the u.s. holocaust memorial council. hancocks lifes work is committed to dispelling myths, fighting prejudice, and promoting a true understanding of the romani people.

we are the romani people faq

1. what is the main purpose of "we are the romani people"?

   the primary purpose of "we are the romani people" is to provide an authentic, insiders perspective on romani life, history, and culture. written by a romani scholar, the book aims to educate non-romani readers, challenge prevailing stereotypes and prejudices, and foster a deeper understanding and respect for the romani people. it serves as a vital tool for self-identification and pride within the romani community while offering factual information to external audiences.

2. when and where did the romani people originate?

   the romani people originated in the northern indian subcontinent, with linguistic evidence pointing to their migration out of india around the beginning of the early middle indian period, approximately before 1000 ad. their journey westward led them through persia, armenia, and the byzantine empire before they entered europe, where their history became intertwined with centuries of persecution and misunderstanding.

3. what does ian hancock say about romani identity?

   ian hancock emphasizes the complexity and richness of romani identity, advocating for its recognition as a distinct global people rather than a mere collection of disparate groups. he stresses that romani identity is rooted in a shared language, culture, and history, and that roma are europeans who have contributed significantly to the continents heritage. hancock challenges the notion that romani identity is a fabrication, asserting its authenticity and resilience despite historical attempts to suppress it.

4. what is the significance of "the pariah syndrome" in relation to "we are the romani people"?

   "the pariah syndrome" is another significant work by ian hancock that, like "we are the romani people," delves into the history of romani persecution. while "we are the romani people" offers a broad introduction to romani life and self-statement, "the pariah syndrome" specifically documents the historical enslavement of roma in europe. both books contribute to hancocks larger project of correcting historical inaccuracies and exposing the systemic oppression faced by the romani people.

5. how has ian hancock contributed to romani studies?

   ian hancock is considered a pioneering figure in romani studies. he established the romani archives and documentation center at the university of texas at austin, which is one of the worlds largest collections of romani-related documents. his extensive publications, academic teaching, and advocacy work have significantly reshaped perspectives on romani history, linguistics, and identity, elevating global awareness of romani issues and challenging historical marginalization. he was also instrumental in advocating for romani representation at the united nations.