ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

History of the Basque people

Ok kiddo, let me tell you about the Basque people's history. The Basques are a group of people who live in an area of Europe called the Basque Country, which is located in the southwestern part of France and northern Spain.

The Basques have their own unique culture and language that is very different from the languages spoken in the rest of Europe. They are often referred to as the "mystery people" because their origins are not very clear.

The Basque people lived in this region for thousands of years before any other settlers arrived. They were some of the first people to farm and raise animals in the area, and they were known for their excellent ironworking skills.

Over time, the Basques began to form their own government and society. They created their own laws and customs, and they even had their own currency.

Despite their fierce independence, the Basques were invaded and conquered by various groups throughout their history. The Roman Empire, the Visigoths, and the Muslim Moors all invaded the Basque Country at different times.

However, the Basques were able to hold onto their culture and language despite all of these invasions. They refused to be assimilated into the cultures of their conquerors, and they continued to speak their own language, Basque, which is the oldest language in Europe.

In recent times, the Basque Country has become a part of Spain and France, but the Basques are still a distinct and proud people with their own unique culture and heritage.