CELTS (KELTS).
Name.—Either native, Ligurian, or Iberian. In its limited sense confined to the southern Gauls. Possibly to some of the Iberians as well. At present, a general term comprizing populations very different from the original Keltæ (Κέλται). And adopted by the Greeks rather than the Romans.
Present area.—Brittany, Wales, the Highlands of Scotland, the Isle of Man, Ireland.—In Brittany it is doubtful whether the Keltic occupancy represent original distribution or immigration.
Original area.—a. Undoubted.—The present the Scottish Low-lands, England, Gaul north of the Loire (there or thereabouts), and parts of Switzerland.
b. Probable.—Parts of Baden, and Bavaria, Northern Italy. In this latter case it is doubtful whether the Keltic occupancy represent original distribution or immigration.
c. Accredited (either in way of original distribution or migration).—The Tyrol (Taurisci), Illyria (Scordisci), Asia Minor (the Galatians), Spain (the Celt-Iberians), Jutland (Cimbri).
Frontier.—Preeminently receding; the encroaching populations being (1st) Roman, (2nd) Gothic.
Conterminous with—a. in the original area; Iberians, Italians, German Goths. b. in the present; English Goths, and French.
Chief divisions.—1. Kelts of Gaul, falling into, a. The proper Celtæ. b. The Belgæ. Extinct(?) or incorporate.
2. British Kelts, falling into, a. The Cambrians. b. The Picts. The latter either extinct or incorporate.