Basque Culture

557 Words2 Pages

While studying culture in the Basque country, I have come to the realization that what I identify as my culture, is very far from what the Basques identify as theirs. Not in the sense that the type of food I eat or music I listen to is my culture, but in what defines it. Personally, I feel that I culturally identify with the Irish, particularly the Irish Catholic, but again, my perception of this cultural identity is watered down compared to the culture I would find in Ireland. For the Basques, I have realized culture is not only about traditions and a proud history, but also about the way in which the Basques incorporate these traditions and history into their everyday lives. As an American, I feel that because our culture is such a melting pot, there is no one specific way to define American culture. Yes, one may say that Americans have an affinity for particular sports and for pop or rap music, but that is not the whole identity. In Seattle for example, Thai food is one of the most popular cuisines available, but that does not necessarily mean eating Thai food is representative of …show more content…

Although the independence movement is a whole subject by itself, I do think it’s important to recognize it as a part of the culture only in that there are many Basque people who feel so strongly that they need to be recognized as separate from Spain entirely. In this instance, I also feel that the prevalence of the Basque flag and Basque independence propaganda and artwork throughout San Sebastian and the Basque Country exemplifies this deeply rooted mentality of what culture and identity means to the Basques. Even if these political feelings towards independence are not entirely unanimous among the Basques, it is these actions and the acceptance of these actions that they consolidate to show uniformity as a single

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