Gypsy Pentecostals (Paperback, New)

The Gypsy people have been a significant part of the European demographics since their arrival to the continent during the Middle Ages. They have been called by different names, but Roma (Romani, Rom) is the name they officially prefer.Some sources estimate there are 12 million worldwide. For centuries, Gypsies have been the object of much fascination and little understanding. There are many stereotypes about them and their lifestyle: On one hand, there are the positive romantic stereotypes portraying them as simple children of nature associated with campfires, violins, and travel. The negative sinister stereotypes, on the other, describe them as thieves, vagabonds, beggars, and fortune-tellers. Because of their unique lifestyle, the Roma have for centuries been victims of prejudice, racism, and oppression. One impressive fact about the Roma is their ability to survive and adjust in the midst of great adversities. This work on Gypsy Pentecostals is an attempt to produce an accurate account on the movement who are among the most marginal group in Bulgaria.