What is the fundamental definition of a diaspora?

A diaspora refers to a population that is scattered across regions separate from its original geographic place of origin. The term is used for people who identify with a specific location but currently reside elsewhere, maintaining a connection to their homeland.

From which Ancient Greek words does 'diaspora' derive its meaning?

The term 'diaspora' originates from the Ancient Greek verb διασπείρω (diaspeirō), meaning 'I scatter' or 'I spread about.' This verb is composed of διά (dia), meaning 'between, through, across,' and σπείρω (speirō), meaning 'I sow, I scatter.' Thus, the Greek word διασπορά (diaspora) literally meant 'scattering'.

What is the earliest recorded use of the word 'diaspora' in English, and what was its context?

The earliest known use of the word 'diaspora' in English dates back to 1594, appearing in John Stockwood's translation of Lambert Daneau's commentary on the Twelve Prophets. In this context, it referred to the scattering of the Jewish people after their return from Babylonian captivity, viewing this dispersion as a form of 'sowing abroad'.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, when was 'diaspora' first recorded in English, and in what context?

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) records the first usage of 'diaspora' in English as occurring a century later, in 1694. This usage was by Welsh theologian James Owen, who cited the Jewish diaspora as an example in his arguments about the biblical roles of presbyters and bishops.

Which biblical texts contain the first recorded use of the word 'diaspora' when the Bible was translated into Greek?

The word 'diaspora' first appeared in the Greek translation of the Bible, the Septuagint. It is found in Deuteronomy 28:25, referring to being 'a dispersion in all kingdoms of the earth,' and in Psalms 146(147).2, describing the gathering of 'the outcasts of Israel'.

How did the term 'diaspora' come to be applied to the Jewish people in ancient times?

When the Bible was translated into Greek, the term 'diaspora' was used to describe populations exiled from their homeland. This included the Kingdom of Samaria exiled by the Assyrians and the people of the Kingdom of Judah exiled by the Babylonians, as well as Jews exiled by the Roman Empire. Over time, it became specifically associated with the historical movements and settlement patterns of the Jewish people.

What is the significance of the term 'Diaspora' (capitalized and unmodified) in English?

When capitalized and used without modifiers in English, the term 'Diaspora' can specifically refer to the Jewish diaspora, highlighting its historical prominence and the unique significance of this particular dispersed population.

What is the broader application of the term 'diaspora' and how did it evolve?

The term 'diaspora' evolved to describe a wider range of population movements and settlement patterns beyond the Jewish experience. This expansion is partly attributed to the Assyrian policy of mass deportation of conquered populations to prevent future territorial claims, and later, the term was applied more broadly to various groups experiencing displacement.

According to William Safran's 1991 criteria, what distinguishes a diaspora from a migrant community?

William Safran outlined six criteria to differentiate diasporas from migrant communities. These include maintaining a collective memory of the homeland, viewing the homeland as the true home, commitment to its restoration or maintenance, identity shaped by homeland connection, being forced into exile, and a long period of settlement in a new culture.

How did Robin Cohen expand upon Safran's definition of diaspora in 1997?

In 1997, Robin Cohen argued that a diasporic group could leave its homeland voluntarily and assimilate deeply into host cultures, broadening the definition beyond Safran's emphasis on forced exile and specific homeland commitments.

What are Rogers Brubaker's three inclusive criteria for defining a diaspora?

Rogers Brubaker proposed three inclusive criteria for defining a diaspora: 1) geographic dispersion (voluntary or forced), 2) orientation towards a real or imagined 'homeland' as a source of value and loyalty, and 3) maintenance of a social boundary that preserves a distinctive diasporic identity separate from the host culture.

How has the usage of the term 'diaspora' expanded over time, according to Rogers Brubaker?

Rogers Brubaker observed that the term 'diaspora' has been applied to an ever-broader set of cases, essentially encompassing any identifiable population category that is dispersed in space. His research showed a shift from early works focusing almost exclusively on the Jewish diaspora to later works covering a much wider variety of dispersed groups.

What was the primary cause of the large Irish diaspora in the mid-19th century?

The primary cause of the large Irish diaspora starting in the mid-19th century was the Great Famine, also known as 'an Gorta Mór' or 'the Great Hunger.' This devastating event led to massive emigration from Ireland.

What percentage of Ireland's population is estimated to have emigrated due to the Great Famine?

It is estimated that between 45% and 85% of Ireland's population emigrated as a result of the Great Famine, seeking refuge and opportunity in various countries around the world.

Which regions experienced significant European migration in the 16th century, according to James Axtell's estimates?

According to James Axtell's estimates, approximately 240,000 people left Europe for the Americas during the 16th century, marking the beginning of large-scale European exploration and colonization.

How many Europeans migrated to North and South America during the 19th century alone?

During the 19th century, over 50 million Europeans migrated to North and South America, a massive movement driven by various economic and social factors.

What were the main reasons for the first major Italian diaspora, which began around 1880?

The first major Italian diaspora, starting around 1880, was primarily driven by poverty and the lack of land, particularly in Southern Italy. Factors like the subdivision of property over generations and harsh socioeconomic conditions compelled many Italians to seek opportunities abroad.

How many Italians left Italy permanently between 1880 and 1980?

Between 1880 and 1980, approximately 15 million Italians left the country permanently, reflecting significant waves of emigration driven by economic hardship and social conditions.

What event led to the expulsion of 80,000 South Asians from Uganda in 1972?

In 1972, Uganda expelled 80,000 South Asians under the regime of Idi Amin, leading to their dispersal and the formation of new diaspora communities.

What was the Istrian-Dalmatian exodus, and who was involved?

The Istrian-Dalmatian exodus was the post-World War II departure of ethnic Italians, Slovenes, Croats, and Istro-Romanians from Yugoslav territories including Istria, Kvarner, the Julian March, and Dalmatia. This movement was driven by political changes and ethnic tensions following the war.

What were the 'foibe massacres' associated with the Istrian-Dalmatian exodus?

The 'foibe massacres' refer to the killings of hundreds or tens of thousands of ethnic Italians, Slovenes, and Croats by Yugoslav Partisans and OZNA during and after World War II. These events contributed to the post-war exodus from the region.

What were the primary causes of the large population movements and new diasporas formed in the 20th century?

The 20th century saw significant population movements and the formation of new diasporas due to various factors, including large-scale government-orchestrated transfers, efforts to escape conflict and warfare, and political developments such as the end of colonialism.

How did World War II contribute to the formation of diasporas?

World War II led to the formation of diasporas through the persecution, deportation, and killing of millions by Nazi German authorities, particularly Jews and Romani people. Additionally, post-war expulsions of ethnic Germans from Eastern European countries and the Istrian-Dalmatian exodus created significant displaced populations.

What was the 'boat people' phenomenon, and which country was it associated with?

The 'boat people' phenomenon refers to the mass exodus of Vietnamese people from Vietnam, particularly after the Vietnam War ended in 1975. Many Vietnamese emigrated by sea, seeking refuge in countries like France, the United States, Australia, and Canada.

What event triggered the large Afghan diaspora in the late 20th century?

The large Afghan diaspora resulted from the 1979 invasion of Afghanistan by the Soviet Union, which led to widespread conflict and displacement, creating one of the world's largest refugee populations.

What led to the significant Iranian diaspora starting in 1979?

The Iranian diaspora grew significantly following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which led to the overthrow of the Shah's regime. Many Iranians fled the country due to political and social changes.

What is the 'Venezuelan refugee crisis' and what are its estimated numbers?

The Venezuelan refugee crisis refers to the mass emigration of millions of Venezuelans since the presidencies of Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, driven by political instability and economic collapse. By October 2022, estimates indicated over 7.1 million Venezuelans had emigrated, representing over 20% of the country's population.

How do diaspora internet services function?

Diaspora internet services, such as web portals and forums, often connect people based on shared origins and current locations. Mobile applications like WeChat also create de facto online diaspora communities, and companies leverage these networks to enter new markets.

What is a 'diaspora language' in sociolinguistics?

A 'diaspora language' is a sociolinguistic concept referring to a language variety spoken by dispersed peoples who share common roots. The emergence and evolution of such languages are often tied to efforts to maintain cultural identity, with examples including Yiddish and African American Vernacular English.

What was the significance of the film 'Gran Torino' regarding diaspora?

The 2008 film 'Gran Torino,' starring Clint Eastwood, was notable for being the first mainstream American film to feature the Hmong American diaspora, bringing their experiences to a wider audience.

What is the difference between the Jewish diaspora and other diasporas in terms of the term's specific usage?

In English, the term 'Diaspora' (capitalized and without modifiers) can specifically refer to the Jewish diaspora, acknowledging its historical significance and the foundational role it played in the concept's development. While the term is now applied broadly, its specific reference to the Jewish experience remains prominent.

What were the main drivers of internal migration within China?

Internal migration within China has been driven by the search for greater economic opportunities, particularly in booming coastal metropolises. Although this trend has slowed with the development of China's interior, migrant social structures often remain based on shared places of origin.

How did the African Union attempt to facilitate movement within Africa?

The African Union launched an African Union Passport in July 2016, intended to allow citizens of its 55 member states to move freely between these countries. This initiative aims to encourage migrants with national African passports to return to Africa and foster a unified future.

What is 'diaspora management' as conceptualized by Harris Mylonas?

'Diaspora management,' as reconceptualized by Harris Mylonas, refers to the policies states implement to build connections with their diaspora populations abroad. It also includes policies designed to aid the incorporation and integration of diasporic communities when they return to their homeland.

What were the main reasons for the Italian diaspora after World War II?

The second major Italian diaspora, starting after World War II and concluding around the 1970s, was influenced by the post-war economic growth concentrated in Northwest Italy. This led to significant internal migration from regions like Triveneto and Southern Italy towards industrial centers such as Milan and Turin.

How did the Syrian Civil War contribute to the 2015 European migrant crisis?

The escalation of the Syrian Civil War, coupled with the territorial dominance of ISIL and the cessation of asylum acceptance by neighboring countries like Lebanon and Jordan, significantly contributed to the 2015 European migrant crisis. This led to an estimated 1.3 million people seeking asylum in Europe.

What were the political consequences of the 2015 European migrant crisis?

The 2015 European migrant crisis led to increased political polarization, a decline in confidence in the European Union, and the tightening of asylum laws in many countries. Right-wing populist parties gained popularity, capitalizing on public anxiety about immigration and cultural changes.

What is the significance of the term 'Bolivarian diaspora'?

The term 'Bolivarian diaspora' refers to the significant emigration of Venezuelans driven by the political and economic crises stemming from the Bolivarian Revolution. It signifies a reversal of Venezuela's historical role as a destination for immigrants.

What are the key characteristics of the 'diaspora language' concept?

The concept of 'diaspora language,' emerging in the 1980s, refers to language varieties spoken by dispersed groups aiming to retain cultural identity. These languages often evolve through migration and interaction in new environments, with examples like Yiddish and African American Vernacular English.

How did the concept of 'diaspora' evolve from its ancient Greek roots?

While originating from Greek words meaning 'scattering,' the term 'diaspora' initially had specific historical applications, notably in the Septuagint referring to Jewish exiles. Its meaning broadened over time, influenced by scholarly interpretations and the application to various dispersed populations, moving beyond its original connotations.

What role do diasporas play in contemporary international relations?

Diasporas often maintain strong cultural and political ties to their homelands, influencing their host countries' policies towards those homelands. They can also serve as bridges for economic and cultural exchange, as seen with companies leveraging diaspora communities to enter new markets.

What is the difference between 'diaspora' and 'internal migration'?

Diaspora specifically refers to populations dispersed from their original geographic territory to other regions or countries. Internal migration, conversely, involves the movement of people within the borders of a single country, changing regional demographics but not national borders.

What historical events contributed to the formation of the Scottish diaspora?

The Scottish diaspora developed significantly after the Highland and Lowland Clearances, periods of forced displacement and emigration from Scotland, leading to large populations settling in places like Ireland (Ulster Scots) and North America (Scotch-Irish).

What factors drove the large-scale European migration to the Americas in the 19th century?

The 19th century saw over 50 million Europeans migrate to the Americas due to a combination of factors including population growth, economic hardship, political unrest, and the availability of land and opportunities in the New World.

How did the concept of 'diaspora' expand beyond ethnic or religious groups?

The concept of 'diaspora' has expanded to include professional communities, such as scientists conducting research away from their homeland (science diasporas), and merchant communities (trading diasporas). It has even been applied, sometimes controversially, to corporate executives forced into new roles due to corporate upheaval ('corporate diaspora').

What is the significance of the term 'diaspora language'?

A 'diaspora language' is a linguistic variety that emerges or is maintained by a dispersed population, often as a means of preserving cultural identity. Examples like Yiddish and African American Vernacular English illustrate how language can serve as a marker of shared heritage and experience across different locations.

What is the relationship between 'diaspora' and 'forced migration'?

Forced migration is a common cause for the formation of diasporas. Events like genocides (e.g., Armenian, Assyrian), wars (e.g., Syrian Civil War), political persecution (e.g., Franco's Spain), and natural disasters (e.g., Hurricane Katrina) have historically compelled large populations to leave their homelands, creating diasporic communities.

How did the term 'diaspora' get applied to the 'New Orleans diaspora' after Hurricane Katrina?

The term 'New Orleans diaspora' was used to describe the displacement of people following Hurricane Katrina, as many evacuees were unable to return to their homes and maintained aspirations to do so. This usage reflects the broader application of the term to significant population movements, even those resulting from natural disasters.

What is the difference between the 'African diaspora' and the 'African Union Passport' initiative?

The 'African diaspora' refers to the descendants of Africans who were dispersed throughout the world, particularly due to the Atlantic and Arab slave trades. The 'African Union Passport' is a modern initiative by the African Union aimed at facilitating travel and movement *within* the African continent for its member states' citizens, encouraging a unified future and potentially aiding the return of some diaspora members.

What does the term 'corporate diaspora' refer to, and how is it used heuristically?

The term 'corporate diaspora' has been used to describe mid-level executives displaced by corporate changes. While it may avoid connotations of forced uprooting, its scholarly use can heuristically describe how corporations operate alongside diasporas, highlighting the cultural logic of capitalism in circulating people and capital globally.

What are 'secondary diasporas' or 'sub-diaspora groupings'?

'Secondary diasporas' or 'sub-diaspora groupings' refer to new diasporic communities that branch out from previously established ones. This concept has gained attention with the increase in global migration flows, showing how diasporic identities and networks can evolve over time and across generations.

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Defining Diaspora

Geographic Dispersion

A diaspora refers to a population scattered across regions separate from its original geographic homeland. This term is applied to individuals who identify with a specific place of origin but currently reside elsewhere.

Collective Identity

The concept often encompasses a shared collective memory, a commitment to the homeland's restoration or maintenance, and a sense of personal or vicarious connection that shapes identity, distinguishing it from simple migrant communities.

Global Phenomenon

Diasporic populations are found worldwide, representing diverse historical, cultural, and socio-economic origins. Notable examples include the Jewish, Indian, Chinese, and Irish diasporas, among many others.

Etymological Roots

Ancient Greek Origins

The term "diaspora" originates from the Ancient Greek verb diaspeirō (διασπείρω), meaning "to scatter" or "to spread about." It is composed of dia ("between, through, across") and speirō ("to sow, to scatter").

Early Usage

While the noun itself is not found in early Greek texts, the concept of scattering was used by historians like Thucydides. The term gained prominence in the Septuagint (Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible) to describe the Israelites' exile.

The earliest recorded use in English dates to the late 16th century. It was later applied to the Jewish diaspora and then broadened to encompass various dispersed populations.

Deuteronomy 28:25: "thou shalt be a dispersion in all kingdoms of the earth."
Psalms 146(147).2: "he gathereth together the outcasts of Israel."

Historical Manifestations

Ancient & Medieval Roots

Ancient Greek colonization across the Mediterranean and Black Sea basins established numerous city-states, forming an early, extensive diaspora. Similarly, Roman expansion and later migrations contributed to population dispersals.

The Irish Diaspora

The Great Famine (mid-19th century) triggered a massive emigration from Ireland, with millions relocating to Britain, North America, Argentina, Australia, and New Zealand, creating one of the most significant diasporas globally.

East Asian Migrations

Chinese emigration, dating back millennia, saw significant waves in the 19th and 20th centuries due to wars, famine, and political instability, leading to large communities across Southeast Asia, the Americas, and Australia.

The Indian Diaspora

The Indian diaspora is recognized as the world's largest, with over 17.5 million individuals spread across every continent, reflecting diverse origins, languages, and cultures.

Scholarly Perspectives

Defining Criteria

Scholars like William Safran (1991) proposed criteria for diasporas, including a collective memory of homeland, commitment to its restoration, and a sense of identity shaped by this connection. These were influenced by the Jewish diaspora model.

Safran's six rules for distinguishing diasporas:

Dispersal from homeland under duress.
Collective memory of homeland.
Homeland as true home, to which return is envisioned.
Commitment to restoration/maintenance of homeland.
Personal/vicarious relation to homeland shaping identity.
Long period of settlement in host culture, with distinct identity.

Evolving Definitions

Robin Cohen (1997) and Rogers Brubaker (2005) expanded the definition, suggesting voluntary migration and assimilation are also valid. Brubaker highlighted the widening application of the term to various dispersed groups and the shift from a focus on the Jewish diaspora to a broader range of cases.

Brubaker's inclusive criteria:

Geographic dispersion (voluntary or forced).
Orientation to a "homeland" as a source of value and identity.
Maintenance of a social boundary and distinct diasporic identity.

He noted the term's increasing popularity and application to diverse populations.

Classifications of Diaspora

African Diasporas

The Atlantic slave trade dispersed millions of Africans across the Americas. Other African diasporas exist due to the Arab slave trade and voluntary migrations, creating communities in Asia, the Indian Ocean islands, and India.

Asian Diasporas

Beyond the large Indian and Chinese diasporas, this category includes the Romani people tracing origins to the Indian subcontinent, and the Jewish diaspora, with roots in ancient Near Eastern dispersals.

European Diasporas

European history is marked by extensive diasporas resulting from ancient Greek and Roman colonization, the Migration Period, Viking expansion, and later waves of emigration driven by economic hardship and political upheaval.

Internal Diasporas

This refers to significant population movements within a country's borders, often driven by economic opportunities or ecological disasters, creating distinct communities away from their original regions.

20th & 21st Century Movements

Post-War & Cold War

World War II and the subsequent Cold War led to massive population transfers, including the expulsion of ethnic Germans from Eastern Europe, refugees fleeing Soviet expansion, and post-colonial migrations.

Holocaust survivors and refugees fleeing Iron Curtain regimes.
Istrian-Dalmatian exodus of Italians and others from Yugoslav territories.
Expulsion of ethnic Germans from Czechoslovakia and other regions.
Vietnamese "boat people" fleeing after the Vietnam War.

Contemporary Crises

Recent decades have seen large-scale diasporas formed due to protracted conflicts and socio-economic crises, notably the Syrian refugee crisis and the Venezuelan refugee crisis, impacting millions globally.

Syrian Civil War: Millions displaced, seeking asylum primarily in Europe.
Venezuelan Refugee Crisis: Over 7 million emigrants due to political and economic instability.
Rohingya Conflict: Displacement of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar.

Digital & Linguistic Aspects

The digital age facilitates diaspora maintenance through online platforms and social media, fostering virtual communities. Specialized "diaspora languages" also emerge as groups strive to retain cultural identity.

Cultural Impact & Representation

Popular Culture

Diasporic experiences are increasingly depicted in mainstream media, offering insights into the complexities of identity, belonging, and cultural adaptation. Films like Gran Torino have highlighted specific diaspora narratives.

Language Preservation

Diaspora languages, such as Yiddish or African American Vernacular English, represent linguistic varieties that evolve within dispersed communities, often serving as crucial markers of cultural identity and heritage.

State Engagement

Governments increasingly engage with their diasporas through policies aimed at fostering connections, facilitating return migration, and leveraging diaspora networks for economic and political influence.

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References

Assyrian captivity of Israel

Mission in âthe Present Timeâ: What about the People in Diaspora? Michael A. Rynkiewich

Josephus War of the Jews 9:2.

Adrams, L. "Diaspora and Identity in the Viking Age", Early Medieval Europe, vol. 20(1), pp. 17â38.

Pozzetta, George E., Bruno Ramirez, and Robert F. Harney. The Italian Diaspora: Migration across the Globe. Toronto: Multicultural History Society of Ontario, 1992.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Diaspora Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an AI, drawing upon academic and encyclopedic sources. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and scholarly tone, it is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice in sociology, history, or political science.

This is not professional advice. Users are encouraged to consult primary sources and academic literature for comprehensive understanding. The information provided is based on data available at the time of generation and may not reflect the most current research or developments.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Global Migrations: A Scholarly Exploration of Diaspora

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining Diaspora ℹ️

📍 Geographic Dispersion

🤝 Collective Identity

🌍 Global Phenomenon

Etymological Roots 📚

🇬🇷 Ancient Greek Origins

📜 Early Usage

Historical Manifestations ⏳

🏛️ Ancient & Medieval Roots

🇮🇪 The Irish Diaspora

🇨🇳 East Asian Migrations

🇮🇳 The Indian Diaspora

Scholarly Perspectives 🔬

🧐 Defining Criteria

🔄 Evolving Definitions

Classifications of Diaspora 📊

🌍 African Diasporas

🌏 Asian Diasporas

🇪🇺 European Diasporas

🏠 Internal Diasporas

20th & 21st Century Movements 🚀

⚔️ Post-War & Cold War

🗺️ Contemporary Crises

🌐 Digital & Linguistic Aspects

Cultural Impact & Representation 🎭

🎬 Popular Culture

🗣️ Language Preservation

🏛️ State Engagement

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining Diaspora

Geographic Dispersion

Collective Identity

Global Phenomenon

Etymological Roots

Ancient Greek Origins

Early Usage

Historical Manifestations

Ancient & Medieval Roots

The Irish Diaspora

East Asian Migrations

The Indian Diaspora

Scholarly Perspectives

Defining Criteria

Evolving Definitions

Classifications of Diaspora

African Diasporas

Asian Diasporas

European Diasporas

Internal Diasporas

20th & 21st Century Movements

Post-War & Cold War

Contemporary Crises

Digital & Linguistic Aspects

Cultural Impact & Representation

Popular Culture

Language Preservation

State Engagement

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice