Gaelg

Gaelg, also known as Manx, is a Celtic language spoken primarily on the Isle of Man, a self-governing British Crown dependency located in the Irish Sea. It is part of the Goidelic branch of Celtic languages, which also includes Irish and Scottish Gaelic. Historically, Manx was widely spoken on the island for centuries, but its use declined significantly during the 19th and early 20th centuries due to social and economic changes, including migration and increased English influence.

In the 19th century, Manx was the dominant community language, but by the mid-20th century, it was considered critically endangered, with only a handful of speakers remaining. Efforts to revive the language began in the 20th century, culminating in the establishment of language revival programs and initiatives. The Isle of Man Government and various cultural organizations have promoted Manx through education, media, and cultural events. In 2009, Manx was officially recognized as a minority language of the Isle of Man and gained official status in 2011, alongside English.

Today, Manx is taught in some schools, used in broadcasting, and supported by community language courses. Despite its limited number of speakers, estimated at a few hundred fluent speakers and many more with some knowledge, the language remains a vital aspect of Manx cultural identity. Efforts continue to preserve and revitalise Manx, emphasizing its role in the island’s heritage and identity. The language’s revival is seen as part of broader efforts to sustain indigenous languages around the world, contributing to linguistic diversity and cultural preservation.