Changes in boundaries impact on cultural groups

The Gaeltacht regions

A region defined by its use of the Irish language. Established in 1926

Fíor vs Breac

Divided into fíor and breac regions, fíor (80% of population use Irish in everyday life, e.g. Aran), breac (25% of population use Irish in everyday life, e.g. Knocknacarra.

Past 100 years 

Experienced a shrink in both size of region and population. Since 2011, Fíor Gaeltachts have experienced an 11% decline in everyday speakers. Leads to a language decline. 

Disappearing Gaeltachts 

Many Breac Gaeltachts have faded altogether, mainly due to the influx of non-Irish speakers, e.g. Bearna co. Galway. 

Population reduction

Due to the out-migration of young adults. Between 2011-16 the region experienced a 2,500 person decrease. Difficult to attract investment in low quality services or employment opportunities.

The re-unification of Germany 

Post WW2 divide into East and West (West democratic capitalists under Britain and US) (East under communist dictatorship under USSR)

Impact of communism on east

Experienced poor growth due to communist Russian control and focus on mainly heavy industry (time, energy, labour) .

Re-unification impact

Impacted the east the most and notably led to a mass-migration of east to west in search of employment and better quality of life.

Population east 

East Germany experienced a massive decline as a mostly young population mass migrated. The east became dependent on the government.

Modernisation 

Huge investment of huge sums of money to modernise industry. In 1990, East GDP only equated 30% of West GDP. This grew to 70% as of 2019.