Isle of Man 14727 225946910 2008-07-16T03:55:14Z Chrislk02 1313011 Reverted edits by [[Special:Contributions/69.62.197.64|69.62.197.64]] to last version by Jumbuck (using [[WP:HG|Huggle]]) {{Infobox Country |native_name = <span style="line-height:1.33em;">{{lang|gv|'''''Ellan Vannin'''''}}</span> |conventional_long_name = <span style="line-height:1.33em;">'''Isle of Man'''</span> |common_name = the Isle of Man |image_flag = Flag of the Isle of Man.svg |image_coat = Isle of Man coat of arms.svg |image_map = British Isles Isle of Man.svg |map_caption = {{map_caption|location_color=red}} |national_motto = ''{{lang|la|Quocunque Jeceris Stabit}}''{{spaces|2}}<small>([[Latin]])<br/>Whithersoever you throw it, it will stand</small> |national_anthem = "[[Isle of Man National Anthem|O Land of Our Birth]]"<br>"''{{lang|gv|Arrane Ashoonagh dy Vannin}}''" <small>([[Manx language|Manx]])</small> |royal_anthem = "[[God Save the Queen]]" |official_languages = [[Manx language|Manx]], [[English language|English]] <!--[https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/im.html#People]--> |demonym = [[Manx people|Manx]] |capital = [[Douglas, Isle of Man|Douglas]] {{lang|gv|''(Doolish)''}} |latd=54 |latm=09 |latNS=N |longd=4 |longm=29 |longEW=W |largest_city = capital |government_type = {{nowrap|[[Crown dependency]] <small>([[United Kingdom|UK]])</small>}} {{nowrap|[[Parliamentary democracy]]}} <small>{{nowrap|([[Constitutional monarchy]])}}&nbsp; |leader_title1 = [[Lord of Mann]] |leader_name1 = [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|Elizabeth II]] |leader_title2 = [[Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man|Lieutenant Governor]] |leader_name2 = [[Sir Paul Haddacks]] |leader_title3 = [[Deemster|First Deemster]] |leader_name3 = [[Mike Kerruish|Michael Kerruish]] |leader_title4 = [[President of Tynwald]] |leader_name4 = [[Noel Cringle]] |leader_title5 = [[Chief Minister of the Isle of Man|Chief Minister]] |leader_name5 = [[James Anthony Brown|Tony Brown]] |area_rank = 191st |area_magnitude = 1 E8 |area_km2 = 572 |area_sq_mi = 221 <!--Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]]--> |percent_water = 0 |population_estimate = 80,058 |population_estimate_rank = 194st |population_census_year = 2006 |population_density_km2 = 131.2 |population_density_sq_mi = 339.6 <!--Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]]--> |population_density_rank = 75th |GDP_PPP = $2.113 billion <!--cia--> |GDP_PPP_rank = 182nd |GDP_PPP_year = 2003 |GDP_PPP_per_capita = $35,000 |GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 11/12th |sovereignty_type = Status |sovereignty_note = [[Crown dependency]] |established_event1 = Revested in British crown |established_date1 = 1765 |HDI = n/a |HDI_rank = n/a |HDI_year = n/a |HDI_category = unranked |currency = [[Pound sterling]]<sup>1</sup> |currency_code = GBP |country_code = |time_zone = [[Greenwich Mean Time|GMT]] |utc_offset = +0 |time_zone_DST = |utc_offset_DST = +1 |cctld = [[.im]] |calling_code = 44 |calling_code_note = &nbsp; (UK area code 01624) |footnote1 = The Isle of Man Treasury issues its own [[Pound Sterling|sterling]] notes and coins (see [[Manx pound]]). }} : ''For an outline of topics on the Isle of Man, see [[List of basic Isle of Man topics]]'' The '''Isle of Man''' ({{lang-gv|Ellan Vannin}}, {{pronounced|ˈɛlʲən ˈvanɪn}}) or '''Mann''' ({{lang-gv|Mannin}}, {{IPA|[ˈmanɪn]}}) is a self-governing [[Crown dependency]], located in the [[Irish Sea]] at the geographical centre of the [[British Isles]]. The [[head of state]] is Queen [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|Elizabeth II]], who holds the title of [[Lord of Mann]]. The Crown is represented by a [[Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man|Lieutenant Governor]]. The island is not part of the [[United Kingdom]], but foreign relations, defence, and ultimate [[good governance|good-governance]] of the Isle of Man are the responsibility of the government of the United Kingdom. The island was a [[Celts|Celtic]] community which came under the rule of the [[Norse]] in 1079. This has left a legacy from the [[Tynwald]] government to many place names. After a period of alternating rule by the Kings of [[England]] and [[Scotland]], the Manx came under the feudal over-lordship of the [[English Crown]]. The lordship revested to the British Crown in 1764 but the island never became part of the United Kingdom. This accounts for its current position as a Crown dependency. The Isle of Man is not a part of the [[European Union]], but because of Protocol 3 of the [[Treaty of Accession]] in 1972, there does exist the free movement of goods between the two entities.<ref> {http://www.isle-of-man.com/generalinformation/constitution&legal.shtml] the Isle of Man website</ref> ==History== {{main|History of the Isle of Man}} ===Ancient times to present=== The earliest traces of people on the Isle of Man can be found as far back as the [[Mesolithic]] Period, also known as the Middle Stone Age. The first residents lived in small [[Hut (dwelling)|natural shelters]], hunting, fishing and gathering for their food. They used small tools made of flint or bone, which have been found near the coast. Representatives of these artifacts are kept at the Manx Museum. The [[Neolithic]] Period marked the coming of knowledge of farming, better stone tools and pottery. It was during this period that Megalithic Monuments began to appear around the island. Examples from this period can be found at Cashtal yn Ard near Maughold, King Orry's Grave in Laxey, Meayll Circle near Cregneash, and Ballaharra Stones in St Johns. The Megaliths were not the only culture during this time, there were also the local Ronaldsway and Bann cultures. During the [[Bronze Age]], the large communal tombs of the Megaliths were replaced with smaller burial mounds. Bodies were put in stone lined graves along with ornamental containers. The Bronze Age burial mounds created long lasting markers about the countryside. The [[Iron Age]] marked the beginning of [[Celts|Celtic]] cultural influence. Large hill forts appeared on hill summits, and smaller promontory forts along the coastal cliffs, while large timber-framed roundhouses were built. It is likely that the first [[Celtic tribes]] to inhabit the Island were of the [[Brythonic]] variety. Around AD&nbsp;700 it is assumed that Irish invasion or immigration formed the basis of the early Manx population. This is evident in the change in language used in [[Ogham]] inscriptions. [[Manx Gaelic]] remains closely related to [[Irish language|Irish]] and [[Scots Gaelic]]. [[Viking]] settlement on the Isle of Man began at the end of the eighth century. Though the Vikings established [[Tynwald]] and introduced many land divisions that still exist, they had little actual influence on the culture of the Manx people. Although the Manx language does contain Norse influences, they are few. The Norse [[Kingdom of Mann and the Isles]] was created by [[Godred Crovan]] in 1079 after the [[Battle of Skyhill]]. During Viking times, the islands of this kingdom were called the {{lang|nor|''Súðreyjar''}} or {{lang|nor|''Sudreys''}} ("southern isles") in contrast to the {{lang|nor|''Norðreyjar''}} ("northern isles") of [[Orkney]] and [[Shetland]]. This later became anglacized as Sodor. The [[Church of England]] diocese is still called the [[Diocese of Sodor and Man]] although it only covers Mann. (When the [[W.V. Awdry|Rev. W. V. Awdry]] wrote ''[[The Railway Series]]'', he invented the island of [[Sodor (fictional island)|Sodor]] as an imaginary island located between the Isle of Man and the [[Cumbria]]n coast.) In 1266, as dictated in the [[Treaty of Perth]], Norway's King [[Magnus VI]] ceded the isles to [[Scotland]]. The Isle of Man came under English control in the fourteenth century. During this period the Isle was dominated by the Stanley family, who also held the title of [[Earl of Derby]], who had been given possession of Man by [[Henry IV of England|King Henry IV]]. In 1703 the [[Act of Settlement 1703|Act of Settlement]] secured peasant rights and marked the beginning of a move away from [[feudal]] government. In 1765, however, the [[British crown]] [[Isle of Man Purchase Act 1765|secured a greater control over the island]], (called "the Revestment") without incorporating it into the United Kingdom, laying the grounds for the island's status as a [[Crown dependency]]. In 1866 greater autonomy was restored to the island's parliament and a full transition to democracy began. The Isle quickly developed as a [[tax haven]] and tourist centre, becoming increasingly prosperous during the Twentieth century. During both the [[World War I|First]] and [[World War II|Second World War]]s the island was used as a location for [[List of concentration and internment camps#Isle of Man|internment camps]] for [[axis powers|axis]] citizens and suspected sympathisers. ===Tynwald=== {{main|Tynwald}} Tynwald, the Island's parliament, was nominally founded in AD&nbsp;979. It is arguably the oldest continuous parliament in the world.<ref>Both the [[Iceland]]ic [[Althing|parliament]] and the [[Faroe Islands|Faroese]] [[Løgting|parliament]] are older, but were abolished from 1800 to 1845 and 1816 to 1852, respectively.</ref> The annual ceremonial meeting in July on [[Tynwald Day]], the Island's national day, continues to be held at Tynwald Hill, where titles are announced and a brief description of the new laws enacted by Tynwald during the previous year is given. ==Geography== [[Image:Isle of Man map-en.svg|right|250px|thumb|Map of the Isle of Man]] [[Image:Isle-of-Man-Ramsey-Kirk-Michael.jpg|right|250px|thumb|Isle of Man /Ramsey/ seen from the air]] {{main|Geography of the Isle of Man}} {{seealso|List of islands of the Isle of Man}} {{seealso|Biota of the Isle of Man}} As well as the main island of Man itself, the Isle of Man includes some nearby small islands: the partially inhabited [[Calf of Man]], and the uninhabited [[Chicken Rock]] and [[St. Patrick's Isle]]. The Isle of Man is located geographically in the middle of the northern [[Irish Sea]], close to the geographical centre of the [[British Isles]], an [[archipelago]] off the north-western coast of mainland [[Europe]]. The island lies closest to [[Scotland]] followed by [[England]], [[Ireland]] and [[Wales]]. Approximately {{convert|32|mi}} long and between {{convert|8|mi}} and {{convert|15|mi}} wide, the island has an area of around {{convert|221|sqmi}}. Hills in the north and south are bisected by a central valley. The extreme north is exceptionally flat, consisting mainly of deposits built up by deposition from glacial advances from Western [[Scotland]] during colder times. There are more recently deposited [[shingle beach]]es at the [[Point of Ayre]]. It has only one mountain higher than {{convert|2000|ft}}, [[Snaefell]], with a height of {{convert|2036|ft|m}}. According to an old saying, from the summit one can see six kingdoms: those of Mann, [[Scotland]], [[England]], [[Ireland]], [[Wales]], and [[Heaven]].<ref> {{cite web | title = Snaefell Mountain Railway | work = Isle of Man Guide | publisher = Maxima Systems Ltd | url = http://www.iomguide.com/mountainrailway.php | accessdate = 2008-06-05 | quote = From the top on a clear day it is said one can see the six kingdoms. The kingdom of Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Mann and Heaven. }}</ref><ref> {{cite web | title = Snaefell Mountain Railway | work = visitisleofman.com | publisher = [[Government of the Isle of Man|Isle of Man Government]] | url = http://www.gov.im/tourism/culture/attractions/snaefell_attract.xml | accessdate = 2008-06-05 }}</ref><ref> {{cite web | title = Snaefell Mountain Railway | publisher = Best Loved Hotels | url = http://www.bestloved.com/attractions/snaefell-mountain-railway-in-douglas-isle-of-man-the-north-england-uk.php | accessdate = 2008-06-05 }} </ref> Some versions add a seventh kingdom, that of [[Neptune (mythology)|Neptune]] or the [[Sea]].<ref> {{cite web | title = Snaefell Summit | work = isle-of-man.com | url = http://www.isle-of-man.com/manxnotebook/tourism/pcards/snaefell.htm | accessdate = 2008-06-05 | quote = It is the answer to the often posed question as to where can one see seven kingdoms at the same time ? The seven Kingdoms being the four mentioned by Earl James, the Kingdom of Man, of Earth (in some answers that of Neptune) and of Heaven. }}</ref><ref>[http://www.uwm.edu/Dept/celtic/ekeltoi/volumes/vol2/2_4/maddrell_2_4.pdf Ian O'Leary Lecture<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> ===Population=== {{main|Manx people}} According to the 2006 interim census,<ref> {{cite web | title = Isle of Man Census 2006 - Summary Results | work = [[Isle of Man Treasury]] | date = [[December 2006]] | publisher = [[Government of the Isle of Man|Isle of Man Government]] | url = http://www.gov.im/lib/docs/treasury/economic/census/isleofmancensusreport2006.pdf | format = [[PDF]] | accessdate = 2008-06-05 }} </ref> the Isle of Man is home to 80,058 people, of whom 26,218 reside in the island's capital [[Douglas, Isle of Man|Douglas]]. Most of the population were born in the [[British Isles]], with 47.6% born in the Isle of Man, 37.2% born in England, 3.4% in Scotland, 2.1% in Northern Ireland, 2.1% in the Republic of Ireland, 1.2% in Wales and 0.3% born in the Channel Islands. ==Government== [[Image:IoM.JPG|right|280px|rightd|thumb|A [[satellite]] picture of the Isle of Man.]] {{main|Isle of Man Government}} The [[United Kingdom]] is responsible for the Island's defence and ultimately for [[good governance]], and for representing the Island in international forums, while the Island's own [[parliament]] and government have competence over all domestic matters. ===Structure=== {{seealso|Manx law}} The Island's parliament is [[Tynwald]], which dates from at least AD&nbsp;979 and is said to be the oldest continuously existing parliament in the world. Tynwald is a bicameral legislature, comprising the [[House of Keys]] (directly elected by universal suffrage) and the [[Legislative Council of the Isle of Man|Legislative Council]] (consisting of indirectly elected and ex-officio members). These two bodies meet together in joint session as Tynwald. The executive branch of government is the [[Council of Ministers of the Isle of Man|Council of Ministers]], which is composed of members of Tynwald. It is headed by the [[Chief Minister of the Isle of Man|Chief Minister]], currently [[James Anthony Brown|Tony Brown]] [[Member of the House of Keys|MHK]]. [[Vice-regal]] functions of the Head of State are performed by a [[Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man|Lieutenant Governor]]. ===External relations=== {{main|External relations of the Isle of Man}} Under [[British law]], the Isle of Man is not part of the United Kingdom. However, the UK takes care of its external and defence affairs, and retains paramount power to legislate for the Island. ====Citizenship==== Citizenship is covered by [[United Kingdom|UK]] law, and Manx people are classed as [[British nationality law|British citizens]], although those without a grandparent born in the UK (or who have not lived continuously for a period of five or more years in the UK) do not have the same rights as other British citizens with regard to employment and establishment in the [[European Union]]. ====European Union==== The Isle of Man holds neither membership nor associate membership of the [[European Union]]. Protocol Three of the treaty of accession of the United Kingdom permits trade for Manx goods without tariffs.<ref>http://www.bmdf.co.uk/ukaccessiontreaty.pdf</ref> In conjunction with the Customs and Excise agreement with the UK, this facilitates free trade with the UK. While Manx goods can be freely moved within the EU, people, capital and services cannot. EU citizens are entitled to travel and reside in the Island without restriction. ====Commonwealth of Nations==== The Isle of Man is not itself a member of the [[Commonwealth of Nations]]. By virtue of its relationship with the United Kingdom, it takes part in several Commonwealth institutions, including the [[Commonwealth Parliamentary Association]] and the [[Commonwealth Games]]. ===Politics=== [[Image:IsleOfMan SheadingsAndParishes-en.svg|thumb|right|200px|Isle of Man local authorities and sheadings]] {{main|Politics of the Isle of Man}} {{see also|List of political parties in the Isle of Man|Elections in the Isle of Man}} Most Manx politicians stand for election as independents rather than as representatives of political parties. Though political parties do exist, their influence is not nearly as strong as is the case in the United Kingdom. The largest political party is the recently established [[Liberal Vannin Party]], which promotes greater Manx independence and more accountability in Government. The LibVannin party has two members of Tynwald including Leader [[Peter Karran]] [[Member of the House of Keys|MHK]]. A nationalist pressure group [[Mec Vannin]] advocates the establishment of a [[sovereignty|sovereign]] [[republic]]. ===Local government=== {{main|Local government in the Isle of Man}} Local government on the Isle of Man is based around the concept of ancient parishes. There are three types of local authorities: a borough [[municipal corporation|corporation]], town commissions, and parish commissions. ==Census in the Isle of Man== The '''Isle of Man Full Census''', most recently held in 2001, has been a ten yearly occurrence since 1821, with interim censuses being introduced from 1966. As a [[United Kingdom|British]] [[Crown dependency]], it is separate, but closely related to the [[Census in the United Kingdom]]. The 2001 Census was conducted by the Economic Affairs Division of the [[Isle of Man Treasury]], under the authority of the '''Census Act 1929'''. [[Category:National censuses]] ==Economy== {{main|Economy of the Isle of Man}} The Isle of Man is a 'so-called' low tax economy with no [[capital gains tax]], [[wealth tax]], [[stamp duty]] or [[inheritance tax]]<ref>[http://www.gov.im/iomfinance/tax/directtax.xml Direct Tax - Isle of Man Government]</ref> and a top rate of [[income tax]] of 18%. A "tax cap" is in force. The maximum amount of tax payable by an individual is £100,000 or £200,000 for couples if they choose to have their incomes jointly assessed. The £100,000 tax cap equates to an assessable income of approximately £570,000. Personal income is assessed and taxed on a total 'worldwide' income basis rather than a remittance basis. This means that all income earned throughout the world is assessable for Manx tax rather than only income earned in or brought into the IoM. It is therefore important for individuals to calculate whether Manx tax treatment is actually more favourable than that in remittance based legislatures such as Ireland. Residency rules, 60 days per annum, are lower than those in surrounding states. The rate of [[corporate tax|corporation tax]] is 0% for almost all types of income, the only exceptions are that the profits of banks are taxed at 10%, as is rental (or other) income from land and buildings situated on the Isle of Man.<ref>[http://www.gov.im/treasury/incometax/strategy/viewnews.gov?page=lib/news/treasury/incometax/newassessorofinc.xml&menuid= New Assessor Of Income Tax - Isle of Man Government]</ref><ref>[http://money.independent.co.uk/personal_finance/tax/article349147.ece Forget Monaco: Isle of Man cuts tax to tempt super-rich - Tax, Money - Independent.co.uk]</ref> [[Offshore bank]]ing, [[manufacturing]], and [[tourism]] form key sectors of the [[economics|economy]]. [[Agriculture]] and [[fishing]], once the mainstays of the economy, now make declining contributions to the Island's [[Gross Domestic Product]] (GDP). [[Trade]] takes place mostly with the [[United Kingdom]]. The Manx government promotes island locations for making films by contributing to the production costs. Since 1995 over 80 films have been made on the Island. ===Communications=== {{main|Communications on the Isle of Man}} The main telephone provider on the Isle of Man is [[Manx Telecom]]. The island has two mobile operators [[Manx Pronto]] (provided by Manx Telecom) and [[Sure Mobile]] (provided by [[Cable & Wireless]]). Broadband internet services are available through Wi-Manx and Manx Telecom. The Island does not have its own [[International Telecommunication Union|ITU]] [[list of country calling codes|country code]], but is accessed via the UK's code (+44) and the Island's telephone numbers are part of the [[UK telephone numbering plan]] with local dialling codes 01624 (landlines) and 07624/07924 (mobiles). In December 2007, the Manx Electricity Authority and its telecoms subsidiary, e-llan Communications Limited, commissioned the lighting of a new fibre-optic link that connects the Island to a worldwide fibre optic network. The Isle of Man has three radio stations: [[Manx Radio]], [[Energy FM (Isle of Man)|Energy FM]], and [[3 FM]]. There is no domestic television service, and local transmitters retransmit analogue broadcasts of [[BBC 1]] and [[BBC 2]] (with [[BBC North West]] regional programmes), [[ITV]] [[Border Television]] and [[Channel 4]]. [[Five_(channel)|Five]] is not available via the Island's analogue transmitters. Many TV services are available by satellite, such as [[Sky Digital (UK & Ireland)|Sky Digital]], and [[Freesat]] from the [[Astra 2/Eurobird 1]] group, as well as services from a range of other satellites around Europe such as [[Astra 1]] and [[Hotbird]]. In some areas, [[terrestrial television]] (including [[digital terrestrial]]) from the [[United Kingdom]] [[Freeview (United Kingdom)|(Freeview)]] or [[Republic of Ireland]] can be received. Analogue television transmission will cease between 2008 and 2009, and limited local transmission of [[digital terrestrial television]] will then commence. ===Transport=== {{main|Transport on the Isle of Man}} The island has a total of {{convert|688|mi}}<ref>[http://www.isleofman.com/tourism/about/ Isle of Man - About the Island<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> of public roads, all of which are paved. Many of the roads on the island have no speed limit, although measured travel speeds are often relatively low. {| class="wikitable" | '''Isle of Man Travel Speeds''' |- | || Speed Limit || [[Speed_limit#85th_percentile_rule | 85% Speed]] || 85% Speed || |- | Measurement Site || (mph) || Eastbound (mph) || Westbound (mph) || Measurement Dates |- | Ballafreer House, Main Road, [[Marown]] || No Limit |align=right| 46 |align=right| 47 || [[27 June]] – [[4 July]] [[2005]] |- | Main Road, [[Baldrine]] |align=right| 30 |align=right| 36 |align=right| 36 || [[21 November]] – [[28 November]] [[2005]] |- | Glen Mona, [[Maughold (parish)]] || Derestricted |align=right| 38 |align=right| 42 || [[26 September]] – [[3 October]] [[2005]] |- | Ballamodha Straight, [[Malew]] |align=right| 40 |align=right| 51 |align=right| 50 || [[6 March]] – [[13 March]] [[2006]] |- | Ballacobb, [[Ballaugh]] || No Limit |align=right| 51 |align=right| 40 || [[3 July]] – [[10 July]] [[2006]] |- | Richmond Hill, [[Douglas, Isle of Man|Douglas]] (By bus stop) |align=right| 50 |align=right| 55 |align=right| 50 || [[24 April]] – [[1 May]] [[2006]] |- | Shore Road, Outside Limekilns Farm || No Limit |align=right| 49 |align=right| 50 || [[2 August]] – [[8 August]] [[2004]] |- | Windy Corner, [[Onchan]] || No Limit |align=right| 54 |align=right| 57 || [[17 July]] – [[24 July]] [[2006]] |} source: ''Transport Implications of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan''<ref> {{cite web | title = Transport Implications of the Isle of Man Strategic Plan: Report | publisher = JMP Consulting | date = 2007-04-27 | url = http://www.gov.im/lib/docs/dlge/planning/publications/transportimplicationsofthestrate.pdf | format = [[PDF]] | accessdate = 2008-04-29 }}</ref> Douglas is served by frequent ferries to and from [[England]] and more limited summer-only services from [[Ireland]]. All ferries are operated by the [[Isle of Man Steam Packet Company]]. The only commercial airport on the island is the [[Isle of Man Airport]] at [[Ronaldsway]]. The island used to have an extensive narrow-gauge railway system, both steam-operated and electric, but the majority of the steam railway tracks have been taken out of service and the track removed. Currently there is a steam railway which runs between Douglas and Port Erin, an electric railway which runs between Douglas and Ramsey and an electric mountain railway which climbs [[Snaefell]]. The lines are mostly operated for the benefit of tourists, though some people use them for commuting. [[Isle of Man bus services|The Island-wide bus network]] is operated by [[Isle of Man Transport]]. Both Single- and Double-decker buses are in service. ==Culture== {{see|Music of the Isle of Man}} The culture of the Isle of Man is influenced by its [[Norsemen|Norse]] and [[Celt]]ic cultural origins, though its close proximity to the UK, period as a UK tourist destination and recent mass immigration by British migrant workers has meant that British influence has been dominant since the Revestment period. Recent revival campaigns have attempted to preserve the surviving vestiges of Manx culture after a long period of Anglicization, and significant interest in the Manx language, history and musical tradition have been the result. ===Etymology of name=== The origin of the name Isle of Man is unclear. In the [[Manx language|Manx]] Gaelic language the Isle of Man is known as ''{{lang|gv|Ellan Vannin}}'', where ''{{lang|gv|ellan}}'' is a Gaelic word meaning 'island'. The earliest form of 'Man' is ''{{lang|gv|Manu}}'' or ''{{lang|gv|Mana}}''<ref>''The Isle of Man. A Social, Cultural and Political History.'' by R.H. Kinvig pp18 (1975) (3rd Edition) Liverpool University Press ISBN 0-85323-391-8</ref> giving the [[genitive]] name ''{{lang|gv|Manann}}'' leading to the word ''{{lang|gv|Mannin}}'', to which a 'h' is added when used after the feminine word Ellan, giving Mhannin. As 'mh' is pronounced like a 'v' in [[Goidelic languages]], in modern Manx the name becomes ''{{lang|gv|Ellan Vannin}}''. During the period of [[Julius Caesar]] as [[proconsul]] and his visit to Britain during 55 and 54 BC Caesar referred to the Isle of Man in his ''[[Commentarii de Bello Gallico]]'' to 'an island called ''Mona'' which lies midway across the sea separating Britain from Ireland.'<ref>''The Isle of Man. A Social, Cultural and Political History.'' by R.H. Kinvig pp18-19 (1975) (3rd Edition) Liverpool University Press ISBN 0-85323-391-8</ref> ===Language=== {{see|Manx language}} The official languages of the Isle of Man are [[Manx language|Manx Gaelic]] and [[English language|English]]. A dialect of English known as [[Manx English]] is spoken. The [[Manx language|Manx Gaelic language]] is a [[Goidelic languages|Goidelic]] Celtic language and is one of a number of [[insular Celtic languages]] spoken in the British Isles. Manx Gaelic has been officially recognised as a legitimate [[autochthonous language|autochthonous]] [[regional language]] under the [[European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages]], ratified by the United Kingdom on [[27 March]] [[2001]] on behalf of the Isle of Man government. The [[Manx language]] is closely related to the [[Irish language]] and [[Scottish Gaelic]]. By the middle of the twentieth century only a few elderly [[native speaker]]s remained: the last of them, [[Ned Maddrell]], died on [[December 27]], [[1974]]. By then a scholarly [[Language revival|revival]] had begun to spread to the populace and many had learned Manx as a second language. The first native speakers of Manx (bilingual with English) in many years have now appeared: children brought up by Manx-speaking parents. Primary immersion education in Manx is provided by the Manx government: since 2003, the former [[St. John's, Isle of Man|St John's]] School building has been used by the ''{{lang|gv|Bunscoill Gaelgagh}}'' (Manx language-medium school). Degrees in Manx are available from the [[Isle of Man College]] and the [[Centre for Manx Studies]]. Manx-language playgroups also exist, and Manx language classes are available in island schools. In the 2001 census, 1,689 out of 76,315, or 2.2% of the population, claimed to have knowledge of Manx, although the degree of knowledge in these cases was presumably varied. In common use are the greetings ''{{lang|gv|moghrey mie}}'' and ''{{lang|gv|fastyr mie}}'' which mean 'good morning' and 'good afternoon' respectively. The Manx language knows no 'evening' as it is 'afternoon'. Another frequently heard Manx expression is ''{{lang|gv|traa dy liooar}}'' meaning 'time enough', and represents a stereotypical view of the Manx attitude to life. ===Symbols=== [[Image:Manx Triskelion.png|left|thumb|Manx triskelion.]] For centuries, the Island's symbol has been its ancient [[triskelion]], a device similar to [[Sicily]]'s [[Trinacria]]: three bent legs, each with a spur, joined at the thigh. The Manx triskelion does not appear to have an official definition; Government publications, currency, flags, the tourist authority and others all use different variants. Most, but not all, preserve [[rotational symmetry]], some running clockwise, others counter-clockwise. Some have the uppermost thigh at 12:00, others at 11:30 or 10:00, etc. Some have the knee bent at 90°, some at 60°, some at closer to 120°. Also the degree of ornamentation of the leg wear and spur vary considerably. The three legs relate directly to the island's motto (adopted late in the symbol's history): ''{{lang|gv|Quocunque Jeceris Stabit}}'', translated as 'Whithersoever you throw it, it will stand'. Interpretations of the motto often stress stability and robustness in the Manx character. Many schools on the island have adapted the motto to promote perseverance and hard work. The origin of the 'Three Legs of Man' (as they are usually called) is explained in the Manx legend that [[Manannán mac Lir|Manannan]] repelled an invasion by transforming into the three legs and rolling down the hill and defeating the invaders. Variations on the Manx triskelion are still in use on the coats of arms belonging to the different branches of the ancient Norwegian noble family that ruled Mann until the thirteenth century. This particular version belongs to the [[Skancke]] branch of the [[Skanke]] family. The name stems from ''skank'', the Norwegian version of the word 'shank', or '[[human leg|leg]]'. The Norse royal family of Man stayed on the island for some years after the death of [[Magnus III of Norway|Magnus III]] and the beginning of Scottish rule. The family's emigration only came after the a final attempt on the part of the Manx at restoring the old Sudreyar dynasty in the 1275 uprising against the Scots. This revolt failed disastrously, ending in the deaths of hundreds of rebels, including the last Norse [[King of Mann]], [[Godred VI of the Isle of Man|Godred VI Magnuson]] when the Manx suffered defeat in the decisive [[Battle of Ronaldsway]], near [[Castletown]]. When the Norse-Manx royals arrived in Norway they took service as nobles of the Norwegian king, quickly becoming [[knight]]s, [[landlord]]s, and [[clergy]] under the Norwegian Crown. ===Myth, legend and folklore=== [[Image:Isle of Man Peel Castle.jpg|right|300px|thumb|Peel Castle]] In Manx mythology, the island was ruled by [[Manannán mac Lir]], a [[Celtic mythology|Celtic]] sea god, who would draw his misty cloak around the island to protect it from invaders. One of the principal theories about the origin of the name ''Mann'' is that it is named after Manannan. In the Manx tradition of folklore, there are many stories of mythical creatures and characters. These include the {{lang|gv|''[[Buggane]]''}}, a malevolent spirit who according to legend blew the roof off St Trinian's church in a fit of pique; the {{lang|gv|''[[Fenodyree]]''}}; the {{lang|gv|''[[Glashtyn]]''}}; and the {{lang|gv|''[[Moddey Dhoo]]''}}, a [[black dog (ghost)|ghostly black dog]] who wandered the walls and corridors of [[Peel Castle]]. The Isle of Man is also said to be home to [[mooinjer veggey|fairies]], known locally as 'the little folk' or 'themselves'. There is a famous [[Fairy Bridge]] and it is said to be bad luck if one fails to wish the fairies good morning or afternoon when passing over it. It used to be a tradition to leave a coin on the bridge to ensure good luck. Other types of fairies are the {{lang|gv|''Mi'raj''}} and the {{lang|gv|''[[Arkan Sonney]]''}}. An old Irish story tells how [[Lough Neagh]] was formed when Ireland's legendary giant [[Fionn mac Cumhaill]] (sometimes known as Finn McCool) scooped up a portion of the land and tossed it at a [[Scotland|Scottish]] rival. He missed, and the chunk of earth landed in the [[Irish Sea]], thus creating the island. === Cuisine === Traditionally the national dish of the Island is 'Spuds and Herrin', boiled [[potato]]es and [[herring]]. This plain dish is chosen because of its role supporting the subsistence farmers of the island, who crofted the land and fished the sea for centuries. A more recent claim for the title of national dish would be the ubiquitous chips, cheese and gravy, which is similar to the Canadian dish of [[poutine]]. Known locally as "CCG", it is found in most of the Island's fast-food outlets, and consists of thick cut [[French fried potatoes|chips]], covered in shredded Manx [[cheddar cheese]] and topped with a thick [[gravy]].<ref>[http://www.isleofman.com/tourism/factfile/dailylife.asp Isle of Man - Factfile - Daily Life<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Seafood has traditionally accounted for a large proportion of the local diet. Although commercial fishing has declined in recent years, local delicacies include Manx [[kipper]]s (smoked herring) which are produced by the smokeries in Peel on the west coast of the island, albeit mainly from North Sea herring these days. The smokeries also produce other specialities including smoked [[salmon]] and [[bacon]]. [[Crab]], [[lobster]] and [[scallop]]s are commercially fished, and the [[Queen Scallop]] ('Queenies') is regarded as a particular delicacy, with a light, sweet flavour. [[Cod]], [[Common ling|ling]] and [[mackerel]] are often angled for the table, and freshwater [[trout]] and [[salmon]] can be taken from the local rivers and lakes, supported by the Government fish hatchery at Cornaa. [[Cattle]], [[sheep]], [[pig]]s and [[poultry]] are all commercially farmed, Manx lamb from the hill-farms being a popular dish. The [[Manx Loaghtan|Loaghtan]], the indigenous breed of Manx sheep, has a rich, dark meat that has found favour with chefs, featuring in dishes on the BBC's ''Masterchef'' series. [[Milk]] and [[cheese]] are produced by IOM Creameries. Manx cheese has been a particular success, featuring smoked and herb-flavoured varieties, and is stocked by many of the UK's supermarket chains. Manx cheese took bronze medals in the 2005 British Cheese Awards, and sold 578 tonnes over the year. [[Beer]] is brewed on a commercial scale by [[Okells|Okells Brewery]] (established in 1850) and [[Bushy's Brewery]]. === Sport === {{main|Sport in the Isle of Man}} The Isle of Man is represented as a nation in the [[Commonwealth Games]] and the [[Island Games]] and will be hosting the IV [[Commonwealth Youth Games]] in 2011. The Island started the [[International Island Games Association|Island Games]] in 1985, and also hosted the Island Games in 2001. Isle of Man teams and individuals participate in many sports both on and off the island including [[rugby union]], [[football (soccer)|football]], [[gymnastics]], [[field hockey|hockey]], [[bowling]] and [[cricket]]. Being an island, many types of watersports are also popular with residents. [[Mark Cavendish]], a pro cyclist riding for Team Columbia, was the first Manx to win a stage of the [[Tour de France]] on 09 July 2008.<ref>Allen, R. <a ref="http://www.iomtoday.co.im/sport/Cavendish-wins-Tour-de-France.4267576.jp">"Cavendish wins Tour de France stage"</a> <em>iom today</em>, July 8, 2008.</ref> ==== Motorcycle racing ==== {{details|Isle of Man TT}} The main international [[motorcycle]] event associated with the island is the [[Isle of Man TT]], which began in [[1907 Isle of Man TT|1907]] and takes place in late May and early June. It is now an international [[road racing]] event for motor bikes and used to be part of the World Championship. The [[Manx Grand Prix]] is a motorcycle event for amateurs and private entrants that uses the same {{convert|37.73|mi|km|2|}} [[Snaefell Mountain Course]] in late August and early September. ====Cammag==== {{main|Cammag}} [[Cammag]] is the national sport of the Isle of Man. It is similar to the [[Scotland|Scottish]] game of [[shinty]], and [[Ireland|Irish]] [[hurling]]. Once the most popular sport on the Island, it ceased to be played by the start of the 20th century. It has more recently been revived with an annual match at [[St. John's, Isle of Man|St John's]]. ==Famous residents== {{main|Famous residents of the Isle of Man}} ===Born or raised on the island=== *The [[Bee Gees]] *[[Mark Cavendish]], sprint cyclist. *[[Charles Kerruish]] became in 1961 the first Manxman to be head of government. *[[Illiam Dhone]] led an uprising against English rule over the island and was executed in 1663. *[[Nigel Kneale]], seminal science fiction and horror screenwriter. *[[Myles Standish]], Captain of the [[Mayflower]], believed to be born in Ellan Bane Farm, Lezayre, but some evidence has also located his birth place as Duxbury in England. <!--- ONLY A SELECT FEW *VERY* NOTABLE PEOPLE SHOULD BE LISTED HERE. ANY ENTRY SHOULD FIRST BE ADDED TO THE SUB-PAGE.--> ===Moved to the island=== *[[James Toseland]], the current World Superbike Champion and MotoGP Rider *[[Neil Hodgson]], the 2003 Superbike and World Superbike Champion. *[[George MacDonald Fraser]], author *[[Norman Wisdom|Sir Norman Wisdom]], comedian and actor. *[[John Rhys Davies]], actor. *[[Andy Kershaw]], DJ. *[[Jeremy Clarkson]], the journalist and broadcaster has a second home on the island. *[[Nigel Mansell]], 1992 [[Formula One]] and 1993 [[Indy Car]] World Champion *[[Steve Hislop]], former motorcycle world champion. <!--- ONLY A SELECT FEW *VERY* NOTABLE PEOPLE SHOULD BE LISTED HERE. ANY ENTRY SHOULD FIRST BE ADDED TO THE SUB-PAGE.--> ==See also== : ''Main list: [[List of basic Isle of Man topics]]'' * [[Anglo-Manx]] * [[Biota of the Isle of Man]] * [[Coins of the Manx pound]] * [[Isle of Man Incinerator]] * [[List of not fully sovereign nations]] * [[Manx (cat)|Manx cat]] * [[Towns in the Isle of Man]] * [[Windmills in the Isle of Man]] ==References== {{refbegin}} ===Notes=== {{reflist|2}} ===Bibliography=== * Russel, G. 1988. Distribution and development of some Manx epiphyte populations. ''Helgolander Meeresunters.'' '''42''': 477 - 492. ===External links=== {{Commonscat}} * [http://www.isleofman.com/ isleofman.com] The Isle of Man online. * [http://www.iomguide.com/ Isle of Man Guide] An extensive guide to the Isle of Man * [http://www.gov.im Manx Government] A comprehensive site covering many aspects of Manx life from fishing to financial regulation * [https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/im.html CIA World Factbook] listing for the Isle of Man * [http://www.manxscenes.com/ Manx Scenes.com] Extensive photographic library. * [http://www.virtualiom.com/ Isle of Man Tour] 360 degree pictures of the Isle of Man. * [http://www.manxviews.com/ Manxviews] Over 1300 Manx images. * [http://www.britlink.org/man.html Isle of Man at Britlink.] {{refend}} {{Template group |title = International membership |list = {{Celtic nations}} {{British dependencies}} {{Non-sovereign territories of Europe|spell=ise/xion}} {{Anglophone states}} {{English official language clickable map}} <!-- Redirecting Template removed per [[Wikipedia:Templates_for_deletion/Log/2008_April_7#Template:Germanic-speaking_regions_of_Europe]] --> }} {{Template group |title = History |list = {{Former possessions of Norway}} }} [[Category:Celts]] [[Category:Isle of Man| ]] [[Category:Islands of Isle of Man]] [[Category:Former Norwegian colonies]] [[Category:English-speaking countries and territories|Man]] [[af:Man (eiland)]] [[ar:مان (جزيرة)]] [[an:Isla de Man]] [[frp:Ila de Man]] [[ast:Islla de Man]] [[bn:আইল অফ ম্যান]] [[zh-min-nan:Mannin]] [[be:Востраў Мэн]] [[be-x-old:Востраў Мэн]] [[bs:Ostrvo Man]] [[br:Manav]] [[bg:Ман (остров)]] [[ca:Man]] [[cv:Мэн утравĕ]] [[cs:Ostrov Man]] [[cy:Ynys Manaw]] [[da:Isle of Man]] [[de:Isle of Man]] [[dv:އައިޒަލް އޮފް މޭން]] [[et:Man]] [[el:Νήσος του Μαν]] [[es:Isla de Man]] [[eo:Manksinsulo]] [[eu:Man Uhartea]] [[fa:جزیره من]] [[fo:Mann]] [[fr:Île de Man]] [[fy:Man]] [[ga:Oileán Mhanann]] [[gv:Mannin]] [[gd:Eilean Mhanainn]] [[gl:Illa de Man - Ellan Vannin]] [[ko:맨 섬]] [[hi:आइल ऑफ मान]] [[hsb:Man]] [[hr:Otok Man]] [[io:Man-Insulo]] [[bpy:আইসল অফ ম্যান]] [[id:Pulau Man]] [[is:Mön (Írlandshafi)]] [[it:Isola di Man]] [[he:האי מאן]] [[jv:Pulo Man]] [[ka:კუნძული მენი]] [[kk:Мән аралы]] [[kw:Ynys Manow]] [[sw:Isle of Man]] [[la:Monapia]] [[lv:Menas Sala]] [[lt:Meno Sala]] [[lij:Isoa de Man]] [[li:Eiland Man]] [[hu:Man]] [[nl:Man (eiland)]] [[ja:マン島]] [[no:Man]] [[nn:Isle of Man]] [[nrm:Île dé Man]] [[oc:Illa de Man]] [[nds:Isle of Man]] [[pl:Wyspa Man]] [[pt:Ilha de Man]] [[ro:Insula Man]] [[qu:Man wat'a]] [[ru:Остров Мэн]] [[sco:Isle o Mann]] [[sq:Ishulli i Njeriut]] [[scn:Ìsula di Man]] [[simple:Isle of Man]] [[sk:Man (ostrov)]] [[sl:Man]] [[sr:Острво Ман]] [[sh:Otok Man]] [[fi:Mansaari]] [[sv:Isle of Man]] [[tl:Pulo ng Man]] [[ta:மாண் தீவு]] [[th:เกาะแมน]] [[vi:Đảo Man]] [[tr:Man Adası]] [[uk:Мен (острів)]] [[ur:آئل آف مین]] [[vec:Ìxoła de Man]] [[war:Isla han Man]] [[wuu:马恩岛]] [[zh:曼島]]