File MC 3/4 - Celtic Congress papers

The idea of holding a Celtic Congress was first raised at the 1900 National Eisteddfod in Liverpool, and a Celtic or Pan-Celtic Association organised meetings in Dublin and Wales. In 1917, the Association was re-established during the National Eisteddfod at Birkenhead, and renamed The Celtic Congress by E. T. John, M. P. (1857-1931). The society seeks to promote the knowledge, use, and appreciation of the languages and cultures of the six Celtic countries (Wales, Ireland, Brittany, Isle of Man, Scotland). There was no central organisation; the annual Congress was held in different countries, with a specific theme. The Celtic Congress comprises an International Council and the six National Councils. The meetings are now known as the International Celtic Congress.