Saunders Lewis

Saunders Lewis, born on October fifteenth, nineteen ninety-three, emerged as a pivotal figure in Welsh literature and nationalism. Raised in a Welsh-speaking ministerial family in Greater Liverpool, his journey of rediscovery began during his service as a junior officer in the British Army amidst the trenches of the First World War. This experience ignited his passion for his heritage language and cultural roots, shaping his belief that the revival of Welsh culture and language was essential for political progress.

A staunch advocate for Welsh nationalism, Lewis argued that cultural nationalism and the dramatic arts must precede any aspirations for Welsh devolution or independence. He foresaw that without challenging the Anglophilia and colonial mentality, the establishment of a Welsh Parliament would merely result in an enlarged County Council. His commitment to this cause led him to co-found Plaid Genedlaethol Cymru, now known as Plaid Cymru, during a covert meeting at the 1925 National Eisteddfod of Wales.

Described by Jan Morris as the most passionate Welsh patriot of the twentieth century, Lewis is recognized as a significant figure in Welsh-language literature. His influence extended beyond literature; through his 1962 radio address, Tynged yr Iaith, he played a crucial role in revitalizing the Welsh language, bringing it back from the brink of extinction. His traditionalist Catholic and distributist beliefs informed his unique interpretation of Welsh history, blending anti-Marxist and anti-colonialist perspectives.

In recognition of his contributions, Lewis was nominated for a Nobel Prize in Literature in nineteen seventy and was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of St Gregory by Pope Paul VI. His legacy endures, as he was voted the tenth greatest Welsh hero in the '100 Welsh Heroes' poll released on St. David's Day in two thousand four.