gypsies

Gypsies, more accurately known today as Romani people, are an ethnic group with origins in the Indian subcontinent. Genetic and linguistic evidence points to roots in northwestern India, with migrations into Europe beginning around the 11th century. The term Gypsy has a long historical presence in many languages but is widely regarded as pejorative or imprecise by many Roma; Romani, Roma, or Romany are preferred self-identifications.

Romani languages form an independent branch of the Indo-Aryan language family, and many Romani people are multilingual, using the dominant language of their country of residence in addition to Romani. The global Romani population is dispersed across Europe and the Americas, with particularly large communities in Romania, Bulgaria, Spain, Hungary, and the United Kingdom, among others. Population estimates vary, reflecting differing methodologies and self-identification.

Within the Romani world there are numerous subgroups—such as Sinti, Roma, Kale, Manouches, and Kalderash—each with distinct traditions, music, crafts, and social practices. Traditionally associated with nomadism in some regions, many Romani communities are now settled and participate in a broad range of occupations, including trades, music, education, and public service.

History includes repeated discrimination and persecution, culminating in genocide during World War II (the Porajmos). In modern times, Roma communities frequently face poverty, segregation, limited access to education and housing, and discrimination in multiple countries. Numerous organizations advocate for civil rights, social inclusion, and improved access to education and economic opportunities for Romani people.