The terms ‘Irish’ and ‘Celtic’ are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different concepts that are worth distinguishing.
‘Irish’ specifically relates to the culture, people, language, and history of Ireland. The Irish identity is deeply rooted in the island of Ireland and encompasses the customs, traditions, and social practices of its inhabitants. The Irish language, known as Gaeilge, is one of the oldest languages in Europe and is a critical part of Irish heritage.
On the other hand, ‘Celtic’ refers to a broader cultural and linguistic group that includes not just the Irish, but also the Scots, Welsh, Bretons, Galicians, and others who share historical and cultural ties to the ancient Celts. The Celts were a group of tribal societies in Iron Age and Medieval Europe who spoke Celtic languages, and their culture included art, mythology, and social structures common across various regions.
In summary, while all Irish people are part of the larger Celtic heritage, not all Celtic people are Irish. The term ‘Celtic’ encompasses a wide range of cultures and languages, while ‘Irish’ is more specifically tied to the identity of the people and culture of Ireland.