Theory that \'Celts\' are a myth

[authun]

And were the Brigantes of Britain related to those in Ireland?

Also there is a tribe named as Menapii in Ireland ... were these related to the Belgic tribe of the same name?

These sorts of name similarities, there are others too, was one of the reasons to suppose invasions during the iron age. However, no evidence for invasion does not mean that that they did not come for some other reason and no evidence that they came in the iron age does not mean that they did not come earlier. As Kosios has already mentioned, the Bronze age is important as is the Chalcolithic. As we learn more about the networks once metals become a valuable resource, we are starting to learn that these were more extensive than previously thought.

The name Brigantes may not tell us much as the Briga element is widespread. Depending on which etymology one subscribes to, it either refers to a deity or dwellers in the hills. The Menapi of course does hint at the more specific Belgic tribe.

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authun