One of the sub-categories of discussion that we’ll be engaging in will be Central Appalachia’s people and culture. From stories and lore, to generally accepted definitions of the area – all of which coming from people born and raised in the area. As one such person, I have a keen interest Central Appalachia’s people and culture. From the exploits of Daniel Boone through the current day, Appalachia has a rich culture that is extremely unique. From the eyes of outsiders, we’ll also take a look at what makes this area so different, including the differences observed from folks raised in other Appalachian regions.
A brief outline of Central Appalachia (If you say appa-laysha, someone will likely throw an apple-atcha):
The culture of Appalachia is diverse and complex, with roots in European, Native American, and African cultures. The region is home to a wide variety of art, music, food, and traditions.In Northern-Central Tennessee, Southern West Virginia, Western Virginia and Eastern Kentucky, the culture of Appalachia is particularly strong. The region is home to a number of small towns and rural communities, where traditional values and ways of life are still common.
Some of the most notable aspects of Central Appalachian culture include:
- A strong sense of community and family
- A love of the land and nature
- A deep religious faith
- A commitment to hard work and self-reliance
- A love of music and storytelling
The people of Appalachia are often stereotyped as being poor, uneducated, and backward. However, this is a gross oversimplification. The region is home to a number of successful businesses and industries, and the people are highly intelligent and resourceful.
The culture of Appalachia is a rich and vibrant one, and it is a source of pride for the people who call the region home.