True Romany Gypsies were regarded as being of the pure “black blood” and the word “black” was regularly used as a compliment, particularly in peoples names, meaning a gypsy of the purest type. Evenings were spent around their fire, known as a yog which was the centre of gypsy family life.

What is a black gypsy?

Dark-skinned, enslaved for hundreds of years, tolerated as musicians and entertainers, reviled as supposedly incorrigible criminals, Gypsies have many of the familiar traits of black- ness. In Eastern Europe they are described as black, and also, think of themselves as such.

How do you know if you have gypsy blood?

Talk to older relatives for clues and family stories. Old family photos can help to identify Gypsy heritage. Photographs taken at gatherings such as hop picking or fairs might be a sign, although these were often annual events which brought together families from many backgrounds, not just Gypsies and Travellers.

What is gypsy blood?

Gypsy Blood is a British feature-length observational documentary which examines the fighting culture that Romani fathers hand on to their sons. It was filmed over two years by the photographer Leo Maguire and produced by the production company ClearStory.

What are the different types of Gypsy?

The term Gypsies and Travellers is difficult to define as it does not constitute a single, homogenous group, but encompasses a range of groups with different histories, cultures and beliefs including: Romany Gypsies, Welsh Gypsies, Scottish Gypsy Travellers and Irish Travellers.

What is the Gypsy curse?

One of the most prevalent beliefs about being cursed is that you should never refuse a gypsy or annoy a witch as they may put the heebies on you. It is said that a group of gypsies placed a curse on the ground when they were moved on from a site they considered to be their home.