II.

Characteristics

Among the outstanding characteristics of the Basques are their independent spirit, love of freedom, and respect for individual liberty; a favorite Basque motto is “Neither slave nor tyrant.” These qualities are reflected in their ancient laws (called fors in France and fueros in Spain), which traditionally governed every area of their lives and were strictly adhered to. These laws were maintained by democratically elected assemblies (juntas), and great care was taken to secure honesty at the polls. It was not uncommon for a fisherman to preside over meetings in which Spanish noblemen were seated.

The law of primogeniture, of great importance to the Basque people, gave permanence to the family structure. The importance of the family is reflected to some extent in the appearance of most Basque homesteads, which differ markedly from the one-story house of the average French and Spanish farmer. The typical Basque house has an air of dignity and stability; its site includes a garden, vineyard, pasture, and woodland.

The Basques are devout Roman Catholics and have fought to prevent domination of their religious institutions by French and Spanish ecclesiastical authorities. Notable religious figures of Basque origin include St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Order of the Jesuits, and the Jesuit missionary St. Francis Xavier. The Basques have retained many religious customs dating from medieval times. Among the most colorful are the Procession of the Crosses and the Corpus Christi processions. The latter are especially interesting because of the national dances performed.

Dancing and games play an important part in the lives of the Basque people, who are especially fond of a strenuous game known as jai alai. They still preserve part of their ancient costume, notably the beret (boina), a blue or red cap.

Many Basques have immigrated to America. It is estimated that about 250,000 Basques live in South America and about 70,000 live in the United States. Most of those in the United States are employed as shepherds in California, Nevada, and Wyoming.