Afrikaner

/ˌæfrɪˈkɑːnər/ noun

Definition

A person descended from Dutch, French, or German settlers in South Africa; one who speaks Afrikaans.

Etymology

From Dutch 'Afrikaan' (African), formed from 'Afrika' plus the Dutch suffix '-aans'. The Dutch settlers in the 1600s evolved their language and identity into modern Afrikaner culture.

Kelly Says

Afrikaans itself is a remarkable language that evolved when Dutch settlers' language mixed with local African languages, creating something entirely new—it's proof that cultures are always blending and changing.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

The English term 'Afrikaner' historically defaulted masculine in academic and political discourse. South African women of Afrikaans descent were often subsumed under generic male terminology.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'Afrikaner women' and 'Afrikaner men' when specificity is needed, or 'Afrikaners' (plural) to indicate mixed gender.

Inclusive Alternatives

["Afrikaners","Afrikaner women","Afrikaner people"]

Empowerment Note

South African women of Afrikaans descent fought for language rights, education, and political voice but were marginalized in 'Afrikaner' political records.

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