Policies, Preservation & Promotion: Connemara & Appalachia

Cultural heritage is not limited to material manifestations, such as monuments and objects that have been preserved over time. This notion also encompasses living expressions and the traditions that countless groups and communities worldwide have inherited from their ancestors and transmit to their descendants, in most cases orally (unesco.org). It is the contention of this book to show that cultural identity can give people a sense of belonging and a sense of pride. What a culture chooses to safeguard for future generations is interesting; not only in the context of what value that culture gives to particular aspects of its cultural heritage but also the political and economic reasons that influence the decision-makers. It is our culture that makes us special but also connects us to others. Heritage is often shared and in this way, it keeps cultures alive. However, with increasing globalisation there is a danger that some of our cultural heritage may be lost forever.