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according to http://www.answers.com/dago, it is an alteration of Spanish name Diego. As a slur, it was originally directed at those of Spanish descent. When and why it was redirected to Italians is anyone's guess.
According to a 2 hour documentary on the Italians in America, many of the 1st immigrants could barely speak the English language. Therefore, many became cheap laborers. Day-Laborers they were refered to. Then, those Day-o's became Dagos! I struggled for years to find that out! I just found out TODAY how they got to be called "guineas"!
What else can I help you with?
What is a dago or a wop?
The word 'dago' is a derivative of the Spanish name 'Diego', which means 'James'. It was originally coined in the 17th century by British sailors to indicate Spanish or Portuguese people, especially sailors. Despite the hispanic origin of the word, in the 19th century the word 'dago' became more commonly used in the USA as a derogatory term for Italians, due to the large immigration from that country. However, it is still used to indicate Spanish or Portuguese people as well, but rarely the French. The word 'wop' is derived from 'without official papers', which was a comment that was written by US immigration officials in their records, with reference to poorer Italian immigrants who entered the USA without passports or any other means of identification. It then became a derogatory name for Italians or those of Italian origin in general, within the USA. Rarely used in other English speaking countries.
What does zipperhead mean?
That is an ethnic slur and we will not post the answer on Wiki Answers.
Is slur a bad word?
No. The word "slur" is not bad unto itself. A slur is a bad thing.
What does piasano mean in English?
a peasant of Spanish or Italian ethnic origin
What kind of person is showing compassion to a victim of a racial slur?
Answer this question… Demetrio, who asks if someone is O.K. after he or she has been subject to a racial slur
What is the origin of the racial slur Dago?
The racial slur "Dago" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, primarily used in the United States to refer to people of Italian, Spanish, or sometimes Portuguese descent. It likely derives from the Spanish name "Diego," which was commonly associated with Italian immigrants in the context of derogatory stereotypes. The term reflects the prejudice and discrimination faced by these immigrant groups during that era. Over time, it has become an offensive term that perpetuates racial and ethnic stereotypes.
What is dumb dago?
The term "dumb dago" is a derogatory and offensive slur used to insult people of Italian descent. It is racially insensitive and disrespectful.
Why are Italians called degos?
To refer to someone, usually from the Mediterranean area, as a Dago is sometimes used as a slur. Over time, its use has softened and is used by some to refer to themselves. In Portuguese, the word Diego refers to a deckhand and perhaps that is the origin of the word.
Who were the gooks?
That is an ethnic slur and will not be considered for response on WikiAnswers.
What is the ethnic origin of the name Menefee?
What is the ethnic origin of the surname Menefee?
What is a dago or a wop?
The word 'dago' is a derivative of the Spanish name 'Diego', which means 'James'. It was originally coined in the 17th century by British sailors to indicate Spanish or Portuguese people, especially sailors. Despite the hispanic origin of the word, in the 19th century the word 'dago' became more commonly used in the USA as a derogatory term for Italians, due to the large immigration from that country. However, it is still used to indicate Spanish or Portuguese people as well, but rarely the French. The word 'wop' is derived from 'without official papers', which was a comment that was written by US immigration officials in their records, with reference to poorer Italian immigrants who entered the USA without passports or any other means of identification. It then became a derogatory name for Italians or those of Italian origin in general, within the USA. Rarely used in other English speaking countries.
What is the ethnic origin of the last name Merid?
What is the ethnic origin of the last nameMerid?
What is the ethnic origin of the name Kamran Gill?
what is the ethnic origin of the name Kamaran Gill?
What is the ethnic origin of the name Hamearbane?
It is of French origin.
What is the ethnic origin of Jason?
Origin: Greek, meaning: 'Healer'
What is the ethnic origin of surname Mansdoerfer?
The name is Germanic in origin.
What does the US census learn about people living in a district?
Their age, gender, and ethnic origin.
