Where can I find information on the history & origin of Gypsys.?

Answer 1

Here is a website about gypsies in Scotland.

http://www.scottishgypsies.co.uk/early.html

Gypsies in the Holocaust.

http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/mod/gypsy-holo.html

I think your best bet is to find the book "A History of the Gypsies in Eastern Europe and Russia." There are several websites that do sell it, so you might check with your local library for it.

http://www.amazon.com/History-Gypsies-Eastern-Europe-Russia/dp/0312129467
http://product.ebay.com/A-History-of-the-Gypsies-of-Eastern-Europe-and-Russia_ISBN-10_0312129467_ISBN-13_9780312129460_W0QQfvcsZ1388QQsoprZ1971570

Answer 2

Look under Gypsy or Romani in the internet and the public library.

There was a program on TV, probably on The History Channel, that told the complete history. You might be able to order it. Basically, in ancient times, people from a part of India were imported to ? (I forgot) as servants. When the goverment changed, these people were seen as non-citizens and were persecuted. They maintained their identity and went from country to country. They resorted to stealing and trickery, and self-employment to survive. Their language is Romani, similar in origin to the original Indian language. Hitler killed them as well as Jews. They remain very clannish, for their own protection and to preserve their culture.

Answer 3

They originated as Slavs in eastern Europe, but their name is taken from Egypt. There's no relationship other than the name, except in Gypsy tradition.

Answer 4

Nowdays they are believed to have originated in India. It was once thought they came from Egypt hence the name.