add w5d4 exercise: no langchain

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/alsacien.md

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+# Overview of Alsacien Language
+
+## Definition
+Alsacien, also known as Alsatian or Alsatian German, is a variety of the Alemannic branch of the Germanic languages spoken predominantly in Alsace, France.
+
+## Geographic Distribution
+- Primarily spoken in Alsace, a region in northeastern France.
+- Communities of Alsacien speakers can also be found in neighboring regions of Germany and Switzerland.
+
+## Linguistic Classification
+- **Language Family**: Indo-European
+- **Subfamily**: Germanic
+- **Group**: West Germanic
+- **Branch**: High German
+
+## Speakers
+- Estimates of native speakers range from 500,000 to 1 million, though use has declined due to factors like urbanization and language shift towards French.
+  
+## Dialectal Variations
+- Alsacien includes multiple dialects, which may vary significantly from one locality to another.
+- Two main dialects: 
+  - **Haut-Rhin** (Upper Rhine)
+  - **Bas-Rhin** (Lower Rhine)
+
+## Characteristics
+- Strongly influenced by both French and standard German, leading to unique vocabulary and pronunciation.
+- Grammar and syntax retain features of Middle High German.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- Acts as a marker of regional identity for the people of Alsace.
+- Extensively used in local media, literature, and music, particularly folk traditions.
+
+## Status
+- Considered a vulnerable language by UNESCO.
+- Efforts are ongoing for revitalization, including teaching in schools and cultural associations promoting its use.
+
+## Related Languages
+- Closely related to Swiss German and other Alemannic dialects.
+- Influenced by and influences neighboring languages, particularly French.
+
+## Conclusion
+Alsacien is a vital part of the cultural heritage of the Alsace region, with ongoing efforts aimed at preserving and promoting its use among younger generations.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/bourguignon.md

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+# Overview of the Bourguignon Language
+
+## General Information
+- **Name**: Bourguignon
+- **Region**: Primarily spoken in the Burgundy region of France
+- **Language Family**: Romance languages
+- **Classification**: It is part of the Langue d'oïl group, which also includes languages like French, Norman, and Picard.
+
+## Historical Context
+- **Origin**: Derived from Vulgar Latin, Bourguignon developed in the medieval period and reflects the linguistic evolution of the region.
+- **Influence**: Historically influenced by Old French, as well as regional dialects and neighboring languages.
+
+## Features
+- **Dialects**: Bourguignon comprises several dialects, often differing significantly from one another.
+- **Phonetics**: The phonetic system exhibits distinct sounds not found in Standard French.
+- **Vocabulary**: Contains unique vocabulary and expressions that may not be understood by standard French speakers.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Speaker Population**: The number of speakers has declined over the years, with estimates suggesting only a few thousand fluent speakers today.
+- **Recognition**: Bourguignon is not an official language in France, but there are efforts to preserve and promote its use among local communities.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- **Folklore and Literature**: Bourguignon has a rich tradition of oral literature, including folk tales and songs that reflect the cultural heritage of Burgundy.
+- **Festivals and Events**: Local festivals often include performances in Bourguignon, celebrating the language's place in regional identity.
+
+## Modern Efforts
+- **Revitalization**: Initiatives to teach Bourguignon in schools and promote its use in cultural activities aim to preserve the language for future generations.
+- **Media Presence**: Some local media, including radio stations and publications, feature Bourguignon, fostering a sense of community among speakers.
+
+## Conclusion
+Bourguignon remains an important part of the cultural identity of the Burgundy region, reflecting the historical and linguistic diversity of France. Efforts to revive and sustain the language highlight its significance within the local heritage.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/breton.md

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+# Overview of the Breton Language
+
+## General Information
+- **Name**: Breton (Brezhoneg)
+- **Language Family**: Celtic, part of the Brythonic branch
+- **Region**: Brittany (Breizh), France
+
+## Historical Background
+- **Origins**: Breton is derived from the Brythonic Celtic languages that were spoken in Great Britain. It arrived in Brittany with settlers from Britain during the early medieval period.
+- **First Documented Evidence**: The earliest written examples of Breton date back to the 8th century.
+
+## Linguistic Features
+- **Dialects**: There are three main dialects of Breton:
+  - **Gouèze** (Western)
+  - **Kerne** (Central)
+  - **Leoneg** (Eastern)
+- **Alphabet**: The modern Breton alphabet uses the Latin script with some diacritics.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Speakers**: Approximately 200,000 to 300,000 speakers as of recent estimates.
+- **Recognition**: Breton is recognized as a regional language in France, but it does not hold official status.
+- **Revitalization Efforts**: There are ongoing initiatives to promote the language, including bilingual education and media in Breton.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- **Literature and Music**: Breton has a rich oral tradition, including folklore, songs, and poetry. Contemporary literature and music often embrace the language.
+- **Festivals**: Events like Fest-Noz (night festivals) celebrate Breton culture and often feature music and dance in the Breton language.
+
+## Challenges
+- **Decline**: The number of native speakers has declined significantly due to historical policies and the dominance of French.
+- **Education**: Breton is not widely taught in schools, although there are some bilingual programs and immersion schools.
+
+## Conclusion
+Breton is a vibrant Celtic language with a rich history and cultural heritage, facing challenges in the modern age but supported by revitalization efforts and community engagement.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/gascon.md

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+# Overview of the Gascon Language
+
+## General Information
+- **Language Family**: Occitan branch of the Romance languages.
+- **Region**: Primarily spoken in the Gascony region of southwestern France, which includes parts of the departments of Gers, Landes, and Pyrénées-Atlantiques.
+  
+## Historical Context
+- **Origins**: Gascon evolved from Vulgar Latin and has influences from the Visigoths and various other historical invaders.
+- **Status**: Once a widely spoken language, Gascon has seen a decline in the number of speakers, particularly in urban areas, due to the rise of French as the dominant language.
+
+## Dialects
+- **Varieties**: Gascon includes several dialects, most notably:
+  - **Bigourdan**: Spoken in the region of Bigorre.
+  - **Armanac**: Found in Armagnac.
+  - **Languedocien**: This influences some Gascon speakers, particularly those in mixed-language areas.
+
+## Linguistic Features
+- **Phonetics**: Gascon has unique phonetic characteristics, such as the preservation of the Latin 'u' sound and certain nasal vowels.
+- **Vocabulary**: Contains a wealth of regional vocabulary, along with borrowings from French, Occitan, and Basque.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- **Literature**: Historically, Gascon has been used in regional literature and songs, contributing richly to the cultural heritage of the area.
+- **Folklore and Traditions**: Gascon is an important vehicle for local folklore, traditions, and customs in Gascony.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Revitalization Efforts**: There are ongoing efforts to promote and teach Gascon in schools, cultural organizations, and through local media.
+- **Number of Speakers**: As of recent estimates, the number of fluent speakers is declining, with efforts being made to preserve the language among younger generations.
+
+## Related Languages
+- **Occitan**: Gascon is one of the major dialects of the Occitan language, which also includes Provençal and Languedocien.
+- **Comparison to French**: While Gascon shares some similarities with French, it retains distinct grammatical structures and vocabulary.
+
+## Conclusion
+Gascon is not only a language but a crucial component of the cultural identity of the Gascon people, reflecting their history, traditions, and regional pride. Efforts for revitalization continue to be important in preserving this unique linguistic heritage.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/languedocien.md

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+# Overview of Languedocien Language
+
+## General Information
+- **Language Family**: Occitan
+- **Region**: Primarily spoken in the Languedoc region of southern France.
+- **ISO Code**: Not officially assigned, but sometimes referred to as "oc" for Occitan.
+
+## Linguistic Features
+- **Dialects**: Languedocien is one of the major dialects of the Occitan language, which also includes Provençal, Gascon, and Auvergnat.
+- **Phonetics**: Characterized by the presence of certain vowel sounds and the use of diphthongs that may differ from other dialects.
+- **Grammar**: Similar to other Occitan dialects, it features a subject-verb-object structure, but with unique local variations.
+
+## Vocabulary
+- **Lexical Influence**: Languedocien vocabulary is heavily influenced by Latin, with a significant number of words also derived from Provençal and other regional languages.
+- **Regionalisms**: Contains unique words and expressions that are specific to local culture and traditions.
+
+## Cultural Context
+- **Recognition**: While part of the Occitan language family, Languedocien does not have official status in France and is considered a regional language.
+- **Literature**: Historically used in medieval literature; notable authors include Frédéric Mistral and others who contributed to the revival of Occitan literature.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Speakers**: There are an estimated few hundred thousand speakers, with numbers decreasing due to the dominance of French.
+- **Revitalization Efforts**: Various cultural organizations and schools aim to preserve and promote the use of Languedocien through courses, workshops, and public events.
+
+## Geographic Distribution
+- **Primary Areas**: Predominantly spoken in the departments of Hérault, Aude, Gard, and parts of Lozère and Pyrénées-Orientales.
+- **Urban vs. Rural**: More commonly spoken in rural areas, with younger generations tending to use it less in urban settings.
+
+## Conclusion
+Languedocien remains an essential part of the cultural heritage of southern France, reflecting the region's history, traditions, and linguistic diversity. Efforts to sustain and promote the language continue amidst challenges posed by modernization and globalization.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/lorrain.md

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+# Overview of the Lorrain Language
+
+## General Information
+- **Language Family**: Lorrain is part of the Langue d'Oïl languages, which are a subgroup of the Romance languages.
+- **Region**: Primarily spoken in the Lorraine region of northeastern France.
+- **Dialects**: There are various dialects of Lorrain, including certain variations influenced by local languages and cultures.
+
+## Historical Context
+- **Origins**: The language has roots dating back to the medieval period and was influenced by the historical presence of the Duchy of Lorraine.
+- **Language Shift**: Over the 19th and 20th centuries, Lorrain saw a decline in usage due to the dominance of French, leading many speakers to shift to French.
+
+## Linguistic Features
+- **Phonology**: Lorrain phonetics include distinct sounds that differentiate it from standard French and other Langue d'Oïl languages.
+- **Vocabulary**: The lexicon of Lorrain retains several archaic words and expressions that have disappeared from modern French.
+- **Grammar**: Similar to French but with unique grammatical structures and conjugations, reflecting its distinct identity.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- **Traditions**: Lorrain is often associated with local folklore, songs, and literature, which contribute to the cultural identity of Lorraine.
+- **Preservation Efforts**: Various initiatives have been undertaken to promote and preserve the Lorrain language, including cultural festivals and educational programs.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Speaker Population**: The number of active speakers has significantly decreased, with many older speakers and limited transmission to younger generations.
+- **Revitalization**: Recent efforts are being made to revive interest in Lorrain among younger populations through workshops, classes, and media.
+
+## Conclusion
+Lorrain is a unique language that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the Lorraine region. While it faces challenges, ongoing efforts aim to preserve and revitalize this historical language for future generations.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/normand.md

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+# Overview of the Normand Language
+
+## What is Normand?
+Normand is a regional language of France, part of the Oïl language group. It originates from the Normandy region and is historically linked to Old Norman, which developed from the Old Norman dialect of Old French.
+
+## Geographic Distribution
+- Predominantly spoken in Normandy, particularly in the departments of Seine-Maritime and Calvados.
+- Some dialects extend into the Channel Islands (like Jersey and Guernsey), where it is closely related to Jèrriais and Guernésiais.
+
+## Dialects
+Normand has several dialects, which can vary significantly in terms of vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar. Key dialects include:
+- **Bocage**: Spoken in the rural areas of western Normandy.
+- **Mélée**: Found in the northeastern part.
+- **Sèvres**: A dialect with influences from the urban centers.
+
+## Linguistic Features
+- Normand retains many archaic French features that have evolved in Standard French.
+- The pronunciation of vowels and some consonant sounds can be quite distinct from Standard French.
+- There are notable differences in use of articles and noun endings compared to Standard French.
+
+## Historical Context
+- Norman was historically influential due to the Viking settlement of Normandy in the 9th century and subsequent Norman Conquest of England in 1066.
+- It was widely used by the nobility and in administrative contexts until French became more dominant post-16th century.
+
+## Current Status
+- Normand is considered a minority language and has seen a decline in speakers over the years.
+- Efforts for revitalization are ongoing, with various cultural associations promoting the language through education and media.
+
+## Cultural Aspects
+- Normand has a rich oral tradition, with folk tales, songs, and proverbs integral to the culture of Normandy.
+- Festivals and events celebrating Normand language and culture are held in various communities.
+
+## Conclusion
+While facing challenges due to globalization and the dominance of Standard French, Normand remains an important part of the cultural heritage of Normandy. Efforts to preserve and promote the language continue, aiming to maintain its presence for future generations.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/picard.md

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+# Overview of the Picard Language
+
+## General Information
+- **Language Family**: Romance, specifically a part of the West Oïl languages, which also includes French.
+- **Region**: Primarily spoken in the historic region of Picardy in northern France, as well as in parts of Belgium and historically in the areas of the nearby Nord-Pas-de-Calais.
+
+## Linguistic Characteristics
+- **Dialects**: There are several dialects of Picard, including Amiénois, Beauvaisis, and Hesdinois.
+- **Vocabulary**: Shares many lexical items with French but also retains unique words and expressions. Some vocabulary is influenced by local historical interactions with Dutch and German.
+
+## Historical Context
+- **Origins**: Evolved from Latin, like other Romance languages. Roots trace back to the Vulgar Latin spoken in the region during the Roman Empire.
+- **Literary Tradition**: Has a rich but lesser-known literary tradition, with poetry and prose dating back to the Middle Ages.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Speakers**: The number of speakers has declined significantly over the 20th century due to the dominance of standard French and the 1999 ban on the usage of Picard in all of France.
+- **Revitalization Efforts**: Recent efforts outside of France include community classes, cultural organizations, and media in Picard to promote the language. It is rumored that there is an underground movement in France to keep Picard alive in spite of the language being banned and illegal to use since 1999.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- **Identity**: Picard is an important part of regional identity and cultural heritage for many people in northern France.
+- **Festivals and Events**: Regional festivals celebrate Picard culture, featuring traditional songs, dances, and cuisine.
+
+## Legal Status
+- **Recognition**: Picard has no official status in France, but it is recognized as a regional language. Efforts have been made to include it in educational curricula and local government documents in some areas.
+
+## Conclusion
+Picard is a unique language that reflects the cultural and historical tapestry of northern France. Despite challenges, there are active efforts to preserve and promote its usage among future generations.

week5/community-contributions/day 4 no_langchain/knowledge_collection/languages/provencal.md

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+# Overview of Provençal Language
+
+## Definition
+Provençal is a Romance language that belongs to the Occitan language family, which is spoken primarily in the Provence region of southern France.
+
+## Historical Background
+- **Origins**: Provençal has its roots in Vulgar Latin and has been influenced by various languages and cultures throughout history, including Celtic, Germanic, and Arabic.
+- **Literary Tradition**: It has a rich literary tradition dating back to the 11th century, with notable poets such as Frédéric Mistral contributing to its revival in the 19th century.
+
+## Geographic Distribution
+- **Regions**: Primarily spoken in Provence, it also has speakers in parts of Italy and Spain, particularly in the Val d'Aran valley in Catalonia, known as Aranese.
+- **Dialectal Variations**: Provençal encompasses several dialects, such as Alémanique, Boulégue, and Languedocien, reflecting the linguistic diversity within the Occitan language.
+
+## Current Status
+- **Recognition**: Provençal is recognized as a cultural language in France but has a minority status and faces challenges due to the dominance of French.
+- **Revitalization Efforts**: There are ongoing efforts to promote and teach Provençal, including in schools and cultural institutions.
+
+## Linguistic Features
+- **Grammar and Syntax**: Provençal has distinct grammatical structures that differentiate it from standard French, including the use of gendered nouns and specific verb conjugations.
+- **Vocabulary**: It retains many words and expressions derived from Latin, along with unique local terms and influences from neighboring languages.
+
+## Cultural Significance
+- **Folklore and Traditions**: Provençal is an important part of the cultural identity in Provence, associated with local traditions, music, festivals, and cuisine.
+- **Media and Literature**: There are books, newspapers, and online resources available in Provençal, contributing to its presence in modern media.
+
+## Conclusion
+Provençal is a vibrant language with a deep historical and cultural significance in southern France. While it faces challenges, ongoing efforts for its preservation continue to foster interest and engagement in this unique linguistic heritage.