The Roma History & Background Quiz!

Explanation
Linguistic and genetic evidence indicates the Romani originated from the Indian subcontinent, emigrating from India towards the northwest no earlier than the 11th century. The emigration from India likely took place in the context of raids by Mahmud of Ghazni. Romani soldiers were defeated and moved west with their families.

Explanation
In 1054, foreigners called “Atsiganoi" were aided then called upon to rid forests of the wild animals which were killing the Emperor’s (Constatine IX) lifestock, but, when his favorite hound died, they were accused of poisoning it.

Explanation
There is no official or reliable count of the Romani populations worldwide. Many Roma for a variety of reasons choose not to register their ethnic identity in official censuses. Roma organizations have provided a high estimation of over 15 million.

Explanation
A 2006 report by The Initiative Group (Kyiv, Ukraine), "Roma in Ukraine", estimates more than 400,000 Roma living in Ukraine. However, Ukrainian census shows only 47,600 - the same as in 1990 - 2005.

Explanation
The Romani people recognize divisions among themselves based in part on territorial, cultural and dialectal differences and self-designation.
The main branches are:
1. Roma, in Eastern and Central Europe
2. Iberian Kale, mostly in Spain, but also in Portugal, Southern France and Latin America;
3. Finnish Kale, in Finland and Sweden
4. Welsh Kale, in Wales
5. Romanichal, in the United Kingdom, emigrated also to the United States and Australia;
6. Sinti, in German-speaking areas of Central Europe and some neighboring countries
7. Manush, in French-speaking areas of Central Europe
8. Romanisæl, in Sweden and Norway

Explanation
Romani social behavior is strictly regulated by Hindu purity laws, still respected by most Roma.

Explanation
During World War II, the Nazis embarked on systematic attempt at genocide of the Romani, known as the “Porajmos” (meaning “devouring” in Romani language). They were marked for extermination and sentenced to forced labor and imprisonment in concentration camps. They were often killed on sight on the Eastern Front.

Explanation
The total number of victims has been estimated to be 500,000 to as much as 1.5 million.

Explanation
Throughout history, since the arrival of Romani in Europe, all of the above legislations have been passed against them.

Explanation
The word "Gypsy" is commonly used as a reference to lifestyle or fashion and should not be used in reference of the Romani ethnicity.