Armenian diaspora

Definition

The Armenian diaspora refers to the global community of people of Armenian descent who have migrated from their homeland, particularly following the Armenian Genocide during World War I. This diaspora has led to the establishment of vibrant Armenian communities across the world, each preserving their unique cultural heritage while also adapting to new social and political contexts, influencing discussions around identity, migration, and belonging.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Armenian diaspora is estimated to include over 8 million people worldwide, with significant populations in countries such as the United States, Russia, France, and Lebanon.
2. Following the Armenian Genocide, many Armenians fled to various parts of the world, leading to a dispersal that established strong community networks and organizations aimed at preserving their heritage.
3. The diaspora plays a crucial role in advocating for recognition of the Armenian Genocide and supporting socio-political issues affecting Armenia today.
4. Cultural events such as Armenian Christmas and Vardavar are celebrated within the diaspora, helping to foster a sense of community and continuity among Armenians globally.
5. The economic contributions of the Armenian diaspora have been significant, particularly in sectors like technology, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, bolstering both local and global economies.

Review Questions

• How has the historical context of the Armenian genocide influenced the formation and identity of the Armenian diaspora?
  • The Armenian genocide created a profound sense of loss and urgency among Armenians to preserve their culture and identity in exile. As survivors fled their homeland, they established communities worldwide that became central to maintaining Armenian heritage. This historical trauma has shaped a collective identity within the diaspora that emphasizes remembrance, resilience, and cultural preservation while adapting to diverse environments.
• Discuss the role of transnationalism in shaping the experiences of Armenians living in the diaspora.
  • Transnationalism is a key aspect of the Armenian diaspora experience as it allows individuals to maintain connections with their homeland while integrating into new societies. This duality enables Armenians to engage in cultural exchanges and support initiatives both in Armenia and in their host countries. Through remittances, cultural events, and political advocacy, members of the diaspora contribute to their home country while navigating their identities within different cultural contexts.
• Evaluate how cultural identity within the Armenian diaspora contributes to discussions on race, gender, and sexuality in a global context.
  • Cultural identity within the Armenian diaspora presents a unique case for examining how race, gender, and sexuality intersect with migration experiences. The diaspora’s collective memory and community practices often challenge dominant narratives about race by highlighting issues such as discrimination faced by Armenians in various host countries. Additionally, within these communities, discussions around gender roles and sexual orientation can evolve as younger generations navigate their identities against both traditional values and contemporary global movements for equality. This complex interplay enriches broader conversations about identity markers in global politics.

Related terms

Armenian Genocide: The systematic extermination of 1.5 million Armenians by the Ottoman Empire between 1915 and 1922, which significantly contributed to the formation of the Armenian diaspora.

Cultural Identity: The shared beliefs, values, and practices that define a group of people; in the context of the Armenian diaspora, this encompasses the efforts to maintain Armenian culture abroad.

Transnationalism: A process whereby immigrants maintain connections with their home country while also integrating into their host country, often seen in the experiences of the Armenian diaspora.