Wales - is it true?

[Coldicote]

In my school days, admittedly many years ago, I recall something in history to the effect that when Britain was invaded by people from the Nordic countries the original inhabitants fled westwards to Wales. Even now I wonder if the Welsh are truly the original Brits. Can anyone clarify the position?

[jackthehat]

The Welsh are the Irish who couldn't swim..............

[rowanwitch]

as genetically many of the tribes within the uk have origins in southern europe with a few traces of scandinavia and germanic races in the mix there probably are no true brits...just a lot of migrants expanding prehistoric territories...

[Coldicote]

You're probably right Rowan. My family have Scandinavian connections. Even so, if there is any truth in a westwards retreat away from invaders it would be interesting to know something of Welsh history. Does anyone know how Wales came into being?

[jno]

yes, the ancient Brits retreated to Wales and Cornwall. Some also fled to Brittany, which was named after them (Brittany is 'little Britain' whereas the island remains 'Great Britain')