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Entry: Race, Nationalism, and Patriotism, Part III: Patriotism Link: http://www.takimag.com/blogs/article/race_nationalism_and_patriotism_part_iii_patriotism#15932 Post contents: <<The people who commonly refer to us as “Gringos” do not intend it as a compliment.>> The best theory on the etymology of the word is that it comes from the Iberian "griego", meaning "Greek"; that is, meaning someone who speaks a foreign language, or even someone who has a foreign culture that speaks Spanish. Spanish soldiers sent to Mexico were called "gringos" by the Mexicans. In some places (Brazil, in particular) simply being from a different place will get you the label of "gringo"; in Brazil, even Mexicans are called "gringos". So, Mr Cundiff is simply using the word appropriately; you are of a different culture from his own, you are a "gringo" to him, whether or not you consider him a "fellow American". If it makes you feel any better (this is what this is about, right? your feelings?) you are welcome to call either myself, Mr Cundiff or any Mexican you see a "gringo" and, technically, not be using the word inappropriately or in a bizarre manner. Sent at: 2008 07 20