“Indian” vs. “Native American”: What’s the Difference?
Jul 31, 2023
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The difference between “Indian” and “Native American”
- "Indian" typically refers to the people and culture of India in South Asia, while "Native American" specifically refers to the indigenous peoples of the Americas.
- "Indian" is primarily associated with the country of India and its rich history, languages, and cultural traditions, while "Native American" refers to the diverse tribal nations and indigenous cultures of the Americas.
- "Indian" has been historically used to refer to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, but it is now considered outdated and inaccurate. "Native American" is the more commonly accepted and respectful term for referring to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, acknowledging their distinct identities and histories.
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What is the definition of “Indian” and “Native American”?
Indian
- The term "Indian" is used to refer to the people, culture, and languages originating from the country of India, located in South Asia.
- In some contexts, particularly in historical literature or older references, the term "Indian" has been used to refer to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, often due to the historical misbelief that Christopher Columbus had reached India when he arrived in the Americas.
- It is important to note that using the term "Indian" to refer to Native Americans or indigenous peoples of the Americas can be considered outdated or inaccurate.
Native American
- "Native American" refers to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, including the United States, Canada, and other regions.
- The term "Native American" is generally considered more accurate and respectful when referring to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, acknowledging their long-standing presence and deep connections to the land.
- The term "Native American" encompasses a wide range of distinct tribal nations, each with its own unique culture, history, and languages.
Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?
“Indian” is the more popular variant on the web.
More popular
Indian
3,110,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- The Indian spices added a unique flavor to the dish.
- She wore a beautiful Indian sari to her friend's wedding.
- I have an Indian friend who loves cricket.
Native American
143,000,000 results on the web
Examples
- The Native American tribe lived in harmony with nature.
- He studied the history of Native American art for his thesis.
- The museum had a fascinating exhibit on Native American culture.
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