Researching and documenting Appalachian and Carpathian traditions: a comparative approach

Abstract

This address, delivered at the conference plenary, provides an overview of Appalachian/Carpathian scholarly exchanges over the last two decades. It also illuminates the many historical and cultural connections between Appalachia and the Carpathian. The presenter argues that there are more than just superficial similarities between the two mountain regions: individuals from the Appalachians and Carpathians practice the same land-use strategies as a result of “the Columbian Exchange.” For two centuries, people in the Carpathians have been growing and consuming maize, tomatoes, beans, potatoes, peppers and sunflowers, all cultigens from North and South America. Conversely, Appalachians share a unique European ancestry and maintained many Old World cultural traditions well into the 20th century. Additionally, a significant number of Hungarians, Ukrainians, and Romanians settled in Appalachian coalmining communities during the early 20th century. Suggestions for future research and collaboration conclude the discussion.