Whenever I read or hear about things that claim to physically determine one as a Celt, I mull about what it to be Celtic in the 21st Century.

The Celts were/are defined as a ethno-linguistic group with an attendant culture. I imagine this would describe most cultural groups, really. Physicality meant little to them and so it should mean little to us. Though most of the posters/members here are North American-born and claim a "Heinz 57" lineage, those of us born in the "old countries" can also claim a similar mixed origin, though likely not quite as diverse. I, myself, was born in Ireland, have a Scottish-born grandmother, and therefore probably have the "blood" of every group who resided in Ireland and Great Britain.

Yes, I am tall. Yes, I am pale and burn in the sun. Yes, I have reddish-brown hair. Yes, I have the toe requirements. But many in my family do not. In fact, most are dark-haired and a bit swarthy. My father is often mistaken for being of a Mediterranean origin! (Until they hear him speak of course!)

The Anglicisation (and therefore disintegration) of Celtic culture was almost completed by the turn of the 20th Century. The near-death of the Celtic languages has struck a very serious blow to the integrity of these cultures. Once the languages and cultural practices are gone, so too will the Celts disappear. It is possible that some may die within our lifetime.

Perhaps I am off-base, but I sometimes feel we are clutching at anything when we bring up genetics and physical traits. Culture meant more to them and should mean more to us.