When did the n-word start to be used?

Answer 1

The word originated as a neutral term referring to Black people, as a variation of the Spanish/Portuguese noun Negro, a descendant of the Latin adjective Niger ("the color black"). Often used slightingly, by the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, it suggested that its target is extremely unsophisticated. Its usage had become unambiguously pejorative, a common ethnic slur usually directed at Black persons of Sub-Saharan African descent.

Answer 2

Specifally 'n!gger', then c.1786, earlier neger (1568, Scot. and northern England dialect), from Fr. nègre, from Sp. negro: "member of a black-skinned race of Africa," 1555, from Sp. or Port. negro "black," from L. nigrum (nom. niger) "black," of unknown origin. Use with a capital N- became general early 20c. (e.g. 1930 in "New York Times" stylebook) in ref. to U.S. citizens of African descent, but because of its perceived association with white-imposed attitudes and roles the word was ousted late 1960s in this sense by 'Black'

Answer 3

Probably has to do with the Latin word "niger" meaning "black". or the French word "negre"