In 2010, flamenco had a historic day on November 16 when it was designated a Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, joining a now 700-long list of traditions around the world ranging from bachata to kimchi. But what exactly does this designation mean? Officially defined as “a phenomenon that is transmitted from generation to generation and constitutes an important aspect of a community’s identity,” this term was initially coined in UNESCO’s efforts to correct its historic bias toward Europe and North America. Check out this insightful article on the history and curiosity of this title, its political implications, and what it means for cultural legacies across the globe!