Sinti vs. Roma — What's the Difference?

The Sinti and Roma are ethnic subgroups of the Romani people, who originally migrated from Northern India to Europe around a thousand years ago. The Sinti are primarily located in Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands, whereas the Roma are more widely dispersed throughout Europe, including Eastern Europe, and have significant populations in the Americas.

Culturally, the Sinti have adapted many aspects of the host nations they have settled in, maintaining distinct linguistic and cultural practices, with their language being Sintitikes. In contrast, the Roma often speak various dialects of the Romani language, reflecting a broader dispersion and diversity in cultural adaptation and integration.

Historically, both groups have faced severe discrimination and persecution, notably during the Holocaust where they were targeted along with Jews. The Sinti in Western Europe experienced this directly under Nazi Germany, while the Roma faced similar fates both under the Nazis and in other parts of Europe.

Socially and economically, both the Sinti and Roma communities often face marginalization and stereotyping, impacting their access to education, employment, and healthcare. However, the extent and nature of their social experiences can vary significantly depending on the country and its specific socio-political context.

Despite the challenges, both groups have rich musical and artistic traditions, which have significantly influenced European art and culture. The Sinti are particularly known for their contributions to jazz and manouche music in France, while the Roma have a broad influence across various musical genres including flamenco in Spain and folk music in Eastern Europe.