Roma & Cinti
are scattered over the face of the entire earth, but principally in Europe; they possess shared cultural and linguistic roots. Although Roma have been living in Europe for more than 900 years, the puzzle about their origins was explained only in the 18th century. They originally came from northwest India, a fact that can be demonstrated by comparing their language (Romanes) with Indo-European dialects from this area. Continuing prejudices dictate that Roma are seen as less an ethnic group as more a nomadic people with an unfettered and extravagant lifestyle. It is in connection with this that they are degradingly described as Gypsies.


Present-day distribution

There are today about 12-15 million Roma worldwide (approx. 12 mil. in Europe). Most live in the Balkans (especially in Romania), Central Europe and the former Soviet Union. Fewer live in Western Europe, Middle East, North Africa and America.

Roma can be subdivided into groups, which are described as nations, depending on place of residence or origin. European nations include Spanish "Gitanos", French "Manouche" and German "Cinti".

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