How long have people lived in Wales?

The earliest evidence of human habitation in Wales dates to around 225,000 years ago, during the Lower Paleolithic period. This evidence includes stone tools and other artifacts found at sites such as Pontnewydd Cave in North Wales and Bontnewydd Cave in South Wales. These early inhabitants were likely nomadic hunter-gatherers who lived in caves and rock shelters.

During the Mesolithic period (10,000 to 4,000 BC), the climate of Wales improved and the population grew. These people began to settle in more permanent settlements and developed new technologies, such as the bow and arrow and the use of pottery.

The Neolithic period (4,000 to 2,000 BC) saw the introduction of agriculture to Wales. This led to a further increase in the population and the development of new social and economic systems. During this time, the first megalithic monuments were built in Wales, such as the cromlech (dolmen) at Pentre Ifan in Pembrokeshire.

The Bronze Age (2,000 to 600 BC) saw the development of new metalworking technologies and the introduction of bronze tools and weapons. This period also saw the emergence of the first hillforts in Wales, such as the hillfort at Tre'r Ceiri in Gwynedd.

The Iron Age (600 BC to AD 43) was a time of great social and political change in Wales. The Celts, who had originally migrated to Wales from Central Europe, became the dominant cultural group. The Celts were organized into tribes, each of which had its own king or chieftain. The Romans invaded Wales in AD 43 and ruled the country for over 300 years. During this time, they built roads, forts, and towns in Wales and introduced the Latin language and Roman culture.

The Roman Empire withdrew from Wales in AD 410, and the country was once again ruled by Celtic tribes. The following centuries were a time of great instability, as Wales was invaded by the Anglo-Saxons, the Vikings, and the Normans.

In 1282, Wales was conquered by Edward I of England, and it remained under English rule for over 600 years. During this time, the Welsh language and culture were suppressed, and the English language and culture were imposed.

In the 19th century, there was a revival of Welsh nationalism, and the Welsh language and culture began to be celebrated again. In 1999, Wales was granted devolved status within the United Kingdom, and it now has its own elected assembly and government.